Arson investigation

POLICE are appealing for information over a suspected arson in Runcorn.

A Cheshire Constabulary spokesman said officers were called to reports of a blaze at 7.40am on Picton Avenue near Halton Road and found the living room well alight. He said the occupant was not home at the time. The road was closed and nearby properties were evacuated while firefighters tackled the blaze.

Runcorn Local Policing Unit are treating the fire as ‘suspicious’ and an investigation has been launched.

Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service said the incident happened in a semi-detached house. Crews from Runcorn and Penketh were at the scene for just under two-and-a-half hours.

Inspector Mike Skillen said: “We are currently following a number of lines of enquiries in relation to this incident, including forensics, CCTV analysis and speaking to local residents.

“Picton Avenue is a busy road and as part of this investigation I’m keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident and believes that they may have witnessed anything suspicious.”

Anyone with any information should call Cheshire police on 101 quoting incident number 113 of March 13.

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.