FIREFIGHTERS believe that a fire that ripped through a house in Widnes was started deliberately.

Crews discovered a semi-detached property on St Anne’s Road well alight shortly after 6pm yesterday, Tuesday.

Crews fighting the flames with hose reel jets had to withdraw when the roof collapsed.

Three fire engines and an aerial ladder platform battled to bring the fire under control.

Crews remained at the scene overnight.

Forensic fire investigators have now been given the all-clear to examine the wrecked remains to find out how the fire started.

Following a meeting with building control and partner agencies, a limited number of people have being allowed into the house to begin an investigation into the cause of the fire.

In an update this afternoon, a spokesman for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “A fire investigation has been carried out.

“The cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate and the incident has been handed over to the police.

“All firefighters have now left the scene. There have been no reported injuries or casualties.”

One neighbouring property was evacuated as a precaution as firefighters dealt with the incident.

Cordons were in place as police closed nearby roads.