Fire crews tackle blaze on marshland on the Wirral

A fire on the Wirral at a reserve cared for by the wildlife charity the RSPB is no longer burning.

Fire engines were called to the scene at the area in Parkgate, near Neston, at around 6.20pm yesterday evening (Saturday 19 March).

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters were dealing with two areas of fire and were using beaters and hoses in an attempt to extinguish the flames.

Meanwhile, a fire break has been set up to protect nearby properties.

The fire service also said police have been advised it is suspected that the fire was started deliberately and a fire investigator is due to attend.

People have taken to social media to express their horror, with one Twitter user describing the fire as a "dreadful sight."

Another wrote: "This is terrible and a disaster for wildlife at the start of the breeding season."

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• Wirral
• cheshire fire and rescue service
• merseyside fire and rescue