FIRE service officer Ronnie Moores is seeking the public’s help into the investigation over an arson incident in a woodland.

A bale of hay was deliberately set on fire last night in a wooded area near the Trent and Mersey Canal opposite Winnington Bridge.

A fire engine from Northwich attended the fire at about 6.30pm, and a host reel jet was used to extinguish the fire.

Watch Manager Ronnie Moores attended the incident, which he said was being treated as arson.

He said: “The fire was in a difficult place for us to access and was close to the canal, down a steep embankment.

“If anyone has any information as to who may have started it they should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said grass fires can get out of hand very quickly, cause extensive damage and put lives at risk.

“They can also last for several days once a fire takes hold, using up valuable Fire Service resources which could be needed elsewhere,” said a service spokesman.

“Every year fire is responsible for the destruction of thousands of acres of countryside, open spaces and wildlife habitat with some fires lasting several days.”