An investigation is underway following a suspected arson attempt at Macclesfield FC's ground.

Emergency services were called to the Leasing.com Stadium overnight after receiving reports of a fire in a building adjacent to the club shop.

The Silkmen have urged the public to avoid the area for the time being as investigations to establish the clause of the blaze take place.

A statement released by the club reads: "Macclesfield FC are aware of a suspected arson attempt at the Leasing.com Stadium in the late hours of yesterday evening/early hours of this morning.

"Emergency services have responded immediately and are on site tackling the blaze in the affected areas.

"Despite understandable concern, we urge everyone to please avoid the area, anyone nearby to keep windows shut, and not to approach the stadium or disrupt the progress of the emergency services.

"We would like to reassure everyone that the situation is under control, there are no casualties and investigations are already underway in to the cause of the fire.

"We would like to thank everyone for their concern and the timely response of those who alerted emergency services so quickly.

advertisement

"Macclesfield FC will be making no further comment at this stage whilst the investigation develops."

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service sent two engines, both from the Macclesfield station, to the scene shortly before 1am.

A spokesperson said: "Just before 1am North West Fire Control received reports of flames visible over a wall of the Moss Rose stadium, home to Macclesfield Football Club.

"When they arrived, they found an outbuilding adjacent to the club's shop well alight.

"Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus extinguished the blaze using hose reel water jets.

"They remained at the scene until 4.30am, damping down and using a thermal imaging camera to check for hotspots.

"An initial investigation indicates that the fire was started deliberately. Cheshire Police attended the incident.

"Anyone with information can call Cheshire Police on 101."

advertisement

Cheshire Police have been contacted for further information.