FLAMES tore through a house that is under construction in a village.

Fire took hold at the building on Sidings Lane, Rainford at about 2.50pm today (Monday).

Fire crews from Eccleston and Kirkby community fire stations were called out and a third engine had to be called out from St Helens.

A Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service statement read: "Upon arrival the ground floor of the property was well alight and a third appliance was requested to assist which was mobilised from St Helens community fire station.

"The ground floor of the property was severely damaged and part of the first floor and roofspace were also damaged."

Firefighters were at the scene for nearly three hours.