A FORMER church building on Borough Road which was badly damaged in what is thought to be an arson attack could be knocked down.

Fire crews were called at 2.40am on Thursday to reports that a disused church building was alight.

Three engines attended the incident, which affected three floors of the building.

A spokesman for St Helens Council said: "We have been in discussion with the building owner and we are currently working with them towards a potential demolition of the property."

Merseyside Police cordoned off the road on Thursday (December 1) morning due to the suspected instability of the building and reopened it at 7am.

A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: "This is a suspected arson case and police will be investigating this matter further.

"We appeal to members of the public who may have seen something or who have any information to get in touch with us on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."