Firefighters from Cheshire and Merseyside continue to tackle a blaze across a widespread area of the marshes alongside Neston and Parkgate.

Witnesses say that flames and smoke were first detected around 5.30pm. At time of writing - just before 9pm - the fire continues to burn fiercely while overhead two helicopters seem to be monitoring its progress.

Just before 6.30pm, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said that six fire engines were in attendance - one from Powey Lane, one from Ellesmere Port, and two from both Chester and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

Cheshire Fire described how firefighters were "tackling a blaze involving around 500 square metres of marshland…Crews are using beaters and hose reel jets to fight the fire."

However, by just before 8pm the situation seemed to have worsened: "There are two areas of fire spreading around the marshland.

"Fire breaks have been put in place to protect nearby properties. Two main jets and hose reels are in use."

Cheshire Fire and Rescue added that, "Police have been advised as it is suspected that the fire has been started deliberately. A fire investigator will also attend."

At 9.07 an update from the Service stated that "relief crews will be taking over at the scene overnight. Holyhead coastguard is also monitoring the incident."

And ten minutes later came the news that "the fire on the marshland is being left to burn because of unstable ground. The incident has been reduced to five fire engines."