YOUTHS broke into a pub outhouse and stole cushions before setting them on fire in nearby woodland.

Police say they were called following a report of the break-in at The Golden Lion on Church Road in Rainford, early on Sunday evening, January 8.

An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

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A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "We can confirm we were called following a report of a burglary at The Golden Lion Hotel, on Church Road.

"At around 5pm on Sunday, January 8, it was reported that a group of youths had broken into an outhouse and stole cushions.

"It was later reported that the cushions had been set on fire in the woodlands behind the building.

"Officers attended but the group had dispersed.

"Inquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible."