.jpg)
Fire Destroys Large Section of Grassland on Albert Road, Formby – Teenagers Seen Running From the Scene
- Formby Bubble
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
Fire Destroys Large Section of Grassland on Albert Road, Formby – Teenagers Seen Running From the Scene
A significant area of grassland and sand dunes near Albert Road in Formby was destroyed by fire this evening, Wednesday 23rd July, after emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 5.30pm.
According to Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, crews were alerted at 17:26 to reports of a large grass fire. Upon arrival, they found multiple seats of fire spanning an area approximately 50 metres by 50 metres. Three fire engines from MFRS and one from Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service attended. The fire was brought under control by 6.30pm, and all crews had left the scene by 6.44pm.
Photos captured from a distance show thick black smoke billowing into the sky as flames spread across the dry dunes and vegetation.
Local witness reports suggest the fire may have been started deliberately.
Just moments before the fire broke out, a local resident reported seeing four teenage boys (around 14–16 years old) wearing balaclavas and dark blue/black sportswear with long sleeves, running away from the smoke and laughing. Not long after they were seen, two additional fires appeared in the direction they had run.
While there is no official confirmation yet linking these individuals to the fire, the witness stated: “They ran straight from the area where the first fire started — we called the fire brigade straight away. It felt very deliberate.”
The incident comes amid ongoing concerns about fire risks on the sand dunes, especially during dry spells. Fires not only endanger wildlife and emergency crews but also put local homes and residents at risk.
BBQs, campfires, and any open flames are strictly banned on the dunes and surrounding green spaces.
If you have any information or witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area around Albert Road, Formby this evening, please contact Merseyside Police on 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A huge thank you to the fire crews for their swift response in keeping our community safe.
We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.
.jpg)
Comments