FIREBUGS have struck at the former home of Runcorn FC in the fifth arson attack within a month.

Four fire engines were sent to tackle the blaze which started in the old Linnets Social Club on Canal Street at about 4.30pm on Tuesday.

Crews were hampered in their attempt to put out the fire after initial investigations showed signs of electricity still being supplied to the derelict building.

Steve Kinsella, station commander at Runcorn, took the decision not to send firefighters to extinguish the flames immediately for fear of electric shock.

A Manweb engineer was called out to assess the site before the team could hose down the building which had already been gutted in previous arson attempts.

The social club and football ground has been empty since Runcorn decided to move base to the Auto Quest Stadium in Widnes at the end last season due to financial pressures.