THREE teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a large fire ripped through a disused building in Runcorn.

The 13-year-olds have been released under investigation as police and firefighters believe the fire was started deliberately.

Firefighters were called to Irwell House, a detached building on Irwell Lane at 6.30pm last night.

Crews, four wearing breathing apparatus, used two hose reel jets, one covering jet, ceiling hooks and a large fan to extinguish the fire.

Firefighters used three appliances to tackle the blaze.

A joint police and fire investigation into the cause of the fire is underway although it is believed to have been started deliberately.

Three 13-year-old boys were arrested by police on suspicion of arson and have since been released under investigation.

Firefighters were at the scene for almost three hours.

Anyone with information should call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 91753 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.



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