A POLICE investigation is underway into the cause of a fire in a school field in Runcorn.

Firecrews from Runcorn and one from Widnes were called to reports of a fire at the bottom of the field in Grangeway, Runcorn at around 5.15pm on Monday.

The fire is believed to have been started deliberately.

On arrival, crews found a large quantity of grass, covering approximately 30 metres by 40 metres, well alight in a St Chad's Catholic and Church of England High School field off Larch Close and Camrose Close.

The size of the fire quickly grew to approximately 50 metres by 50 metres due to the wind.

Firefighters set up a water shuttle to get enough water to the area.

After establishing a water supply, firefighters used two man jets, two hose reel jets and beaters to fight the fire.

Firefighters were at the scene for approximately five hours.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML457141.

Information can also be reported at publiccontact@cheshire.pnn.police.uk or anonymously, via crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.