A BLAZE that tore through a house undergoing renovation in Rock Ferry is believed to have been started deliberately.

Crews began battling the fire at the two-storey building near to Rock Park at around 12.30am on Wednesday morning.

At the height of the blaze, five fire appliances were at the scene.

A fire service spokesman today said early indications point to suspected deliberate ignition.

Police have now conducted house-to-house inquiries and are checking whether there is any CCTV available from surrounding properties.

Crime scene investigators have also been out to examine the damage to the building.

Speaking after the blaze, fire station manager Barry Moore said: “Two main jets initially fought the fire which involved the ground floor, first floor and roof of the building.

“The fire was so intense that the roof collapsed by 1.20am and firefighters had to work from outside the building for safety reasons.

“Firefighters worked hard and really well at what was not an easy fire to access and tackle."

Power company engineers were also requested to isolate supplies to the property.