The cause of a major fire at a school in Northwich is being treated as suspicious.

More than 30 firefighters tackled the blaze at the University of Chester Academy, Middlewich Road, Rudheath, after being alerted about 5.45am.

The fire involved the roof space in a single storey annex.

Two fire engines from Northwich, one from Middlewich, one from Knutsford, one from Holmes Chapel, the hydraulic platform and a supporting appliance from Stockton Heath attended.

Firefighters, two wearing breathing apparatus, used two hose reel jets and a covering jet to contain the blaze. Crews used a roof ladder to strip away two roofs by removing tiles enabling them to inspect all roof spaces in the school. 

Later sheeting was placed on roofs damaged by fire.

A Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said at lunchtime: “All operational crews have left the scene and the investigation is continuing.  The cause of the fire is being treated as suspicious.”