Woman dies in house fire despite rescue attempt

A woman has died after a house fire despite the efforts of a neighbour who entered the home and tried to rescue her.

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service was called to to the blaze on Oaklands Avenue in Crosby, Sefton, at 05:43 BST on Monday.

Fire crews found a front bedroom on fire on the first floor.

The neighbour had tried to rescue the woman, who was in the house alone, but was unable to get past the fire so called 999.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus found the woman on the top floor, and she was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital where she later died.

The fire service said the cause of the fire was believed to have been accidental but an investigation was continuing.

No other injuries were reported and the fire was put out about an hour after crews arrived.

Spokesman Mark Thomas said: "Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the lady who was involved.

"We also know the impact an incident like this can have on the wider community and our crews will be on hand to support in the coming days."

Thomas praised the neighbour who raised the alarm, adding: "If you do hear a smoke alarm go off in a neighbour's property, check it out, and if you suspect fire, call 999 immediately.

"Those vital few seconds could help save a life. Don't try to enter the property yourself if you think there is a fire."

He said the "most important step" to keep safe from fire is to make sure your home has working smoke alarms.

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