EMERGENCY crews are set to remain at the scene of a chemical leak near a distribution centre throughout the evening.

Fire crews were alerted shortly at 1.40pm and on scene at 1.49pm at Lea Green Road, near the Co-Op site.

The site has been evacuated as a precaution whilst crews establish the extent of the leak.

Six engines were are the scene earlier.

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Recordings of a tannoy announcement played on social media suggest the alert is over a "high pressure ammonia leak".

One person has been assessed at the scene by North West Ambulance Service and taken to hospital for further assessment, a Merseyside Fire and Rescue spokesperson confirmed.

Merseyside Police are also in attendance and are assisting with the closure of Elton Head Road.

The incident is ongoing.

Residents are urged to avoid the area.

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A Merseyside Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: "Fire crews are working with multi-agency partners and are liaising with the local authority to ensure the nearby school and businesses are kept informed."

Earlier parents at Sutton Academy received messages saying the children were being held back from leaving school at 2.40pm due to the incident, however, it is understood they have since been given the all clear to go home.