POLICE are investigating a suspected arson attack on a property in New Brighton.

At around 6.10am this morning (Sunday, May 5), the emergency services were alerted to a house fire on Windsor Street in New Brighton, close to New Brighton beach.

The fire service quickly extinguished the fire and no injuries have been reported, although the blaze did cause "extensive damage" to the property.

Following initial enquiries, police say they are looking to identify a man who was reportedly seen leaving the address shortly before the fire was reported.

CCTV and witness enquiries are being carried out, and anyone with any information is asked to contact police.

READ > Two arrests made after 'suspicious activity' results in suspected drug seizure

Detective Inspector Sean Cloherty said: “Thankfully no one was in the property at the time of the fire which has caused extensive damage to the property.

“The investigation is in the early stages as we carry out enquiries in the area. I am particularly keen to trace and speak with a male who was seen on Windsor Street approximately 4am and I would urge anyone with information as to his identity to contact us.

“I would also like to appeal to anyone was in the vicinity of Windsor Street at the time to contact Merseyside Police with any relevant information and I ask that anyone with CCTV, doorbell footage or dashcam footage in the area checks their cameras to see if they have captured this male. This evidence could hold information that could be vital to our enquiries.”

Anyone in the area with information, CCTV or dashcam can contact the police on 101 or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ with log 168 of 5 May.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.