POLICE are treating a large fire at a recycling centre in Birkenhead as a suspected arson attack.

Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service have launched a joint investigation into the large blaze on Cleveland Street which took firefighters more than 15 hours to extinguish and closed major roads in the town on Monday, November 5.

Thankfully, no-one was injured in the fire but residents were urged to stay indoors and close all windows.

Road closures were eventually lifted at around 4pm on Tuesday, November 6.

Detectives are now looking for anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area to get in touch.

Sergeant Beth Renshaw said: “We’re really keen to speak to anyone who saw someone acting suspiciously in and around the area, or witnessed the incident itself to get in touch.

“Committing arson is a dangerous and can be a deadly offence.

"We’re thankful to MFRS attending when they did, where they were safely able to put out the fire. We’ll continue to work together with our emergency service partners to investigate crime and bring offenders to justice."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101 or DM @MerPolCC quoting crime reference number 18400025655.