POLICE have started an arson investigation after a garage fire spread to a home in Runcorn this morning, Wednesday.

Shortly after 2.15am, firefighters from Runcorn and Widnes attended a house in Braithwaite Close.

The garage was on fire and had spread to the kitchen ceiling.

The gas and electricity supplies to the house were isolated and two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus each used a hose reel jet to fight the flames.

Three people suffering smoke inhalation were taken to hospital after being assessed by paramedics.

Now, there is an on-going investigation into the cause of the fire.

Early indications suggest that it was started deliberately.

Anyone with information should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting 640747, give the details online at cheshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 08005 55111.