A SHOP premises in Liscard town centre was evacuated when fire broke out on Friday (February 9).

Fire crews were called to the EE Shop on Liscard Way in Liscard at around 10am after smoke was seen billowing out of the top storey of the two-storey premises.

Four fire engines were in attendance.

The shop was evacuated, in addition to the two shops either side of the affected building.

The fire, affecting the first floor store room, was extinguished shortly after. The believed origin was in the ventilation system, crews investigated the scene and checked for smoke and fire spread to determine the source.

A statement from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service read: "Following an investigation at the scene, fire service personnel found a motor situated in the first floor toilet that was deemed a possible ignition source.

"The gas and electrics were isolated to the premises and two Firefighters in BA dampened down the affected area, extinguishing the fire.

"The incident was then scaled down to two fire engines at scene, as the remaining firefighters continued to check temperatures of the affected area.

"Crews liaised with the store regional manager, who organised for an electrician to attend.

"Fire Service personnel continued to monitor temperatures within the premises, at 10 minute intervals.

"Crews cut away and dampened down the affected area while monitoring temperatures, on further investigation, crews revealed an area of brick and timber behind plasterboard that was the confirmed origin of the fire.

"Crews continued to monitor temperatures, and check for fire spread.

"With no further signs of fire spread, crews made up their equipment and conducted an external handover with the store’s regional manager before leaving the scene at 12.38."