RAIL commuters on the Wigan to Liverpool line are being delayed after a fire broke out at a Thatto Heath playing field near to the tracks.

Two engines were called to the fire on gauze approximately 100 metres by 50 metres at a football pitch on Elm Road just before 1.30pm.

However, they had to wait for Network Rail to switch off the electric current of the track.

Trains are currently cancelled in and out of St Helens Central Station, with a bus replacement service on offer and a diversion in place.