THE fire service is urging people to fit smoke alarms after a 52-year-old Wirral woman died during a blaze in her ground-floor flat.

The woman, whose name has not yet been released, was feared trapped in the flat in Sefton Road, New Ferry, just before midnight on Monday.

A neighbour, concerned about the woman's safety, contacted the fire brigade and two crews turned out to tackle the fire and search the premises.

Investigations into the cause of the blaze were being carried out yesterday (Tuesday). A spokesman for Merseyside Fire Brigade: "Unfortunately, there were no smoke alarms fitted at this property. If there had been, it would have given the occupant a chance to escape.

Anyone wanting a fire alarm fitted, free of charge, should call 0800 731 5958."