Man and dog die after fire breaks out in home

A man and a dog have died in a house fire on Merseyside.

Emergency crews were called to the semi-detached home on Beaufort Drive in Wallasey, Wirral, just after 20:30 BST on Monday.

The man was at first rescued from the building but pronounced dead by paramedics before arriving at Arrowe Park Hospital. The dog died at the scene.

Police and the fire service have started a joint investigation into what caused the fire.

Three engines attended and found the ground floor of the house well alight and smoke issuing from the upper floor, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said.

Emergency first aid was provided to the man at the scene and fire crews also attempted to resuscitate the dog.

Area manager Ged Knock said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the occupier at this difficult time.

"A joint Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service investigation is underway to establish the cause of the fire.

"As an attendee at scene, I can confirm that fire crews worked hard in extremely difficult circumstances.

"We are conscious of the impact on the community and will conduct a full reassurance programme for the area."

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