Man dies after 'out of control' garden fire

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service crews found the body of a man after they were called to a house fire in Canterbury Way, Netherton shortly after 6pm on Wednesday.

Mark Thomas, the fire service's group manager for prevention, said: "On arrival, fire crews found a well-developed fire at the rear of the terraced property.

"The fire had fully engulfed a lean-to in the garden and was spreading inside the property. Crews were able to bring the fire under control quickly.

"Sadly, it became clear very early into the incident that a male had been involved in the blaze. He died of his injuries at the scene.

"The cause and the circumstances have been investigated by the police and our Incident Investigation Team.

"The initial investigation indicates that this was a tragic accident after a garden fire has developed out of control."

Three fire engines attended the scene and were able to fully extinguish the fire by 7.30pm, a spokesman for the service said.

The man's next of kin have been informed by police.

The fire service warned anyone burning garden waste not to do so close to property, trees or outbuildings and to keep a bucket of water or hose nearby.

People are advised not to use petrol or accelerant, not to burn household rubbish, tyres or anything containing paint, plastic or foam, and never to leave fires unattended or smouldering.