FIREBUGS are believed to be responsible for starting a blaze which broke out inside GlynWebb Home Improvements Stores on Dentons Green Lane, Dentons Green, last Tuesday evening.

Carpets were damaged by fire and the remainder of the building suffered moderate smoke damage.

Fire crews from Eccleston and St Helens were alerted to the fire by a passer by who contacted them via a mobile phone.

Firefighters had to break a glass window in order to gain access to the premises.

The fire is believed to have started at the back of the store and then spread inside.

The company, who are currently in the process of a huge expansion programme, are working closely with the emergency services in an effort to aid the investigation.

Store Manager, Mike Mellon, said: "The damage has been evaluated. Fortunately the fire affected only the stock room and a small area of the sales floor.

"We would like to praise the local fire service and our staff for their assistance and co-operation. The store was closed at the time of the fire so it meant a mopping up operation was required the following morning."

"I would like to stress that there has been limited stock damage so the store is open for business as usual."

The St Helens branch has been established for more than 12 years and is a very profitable store, covering 17,000 square feet.