A MAN in his 50s has died after a large-scale emergency service response was called to a Billinge estate.

Police cars, fire engines and an air ambulance were reportedly called to Douglas Avenue this morning (Saturday, September 28).

Emergency services were called at 10.17am following reports a man had been taken ill and that there was a "possible chemical spill nearby".

Police say the man had reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters helped paramedics at the scene of an incident involving one casualty who had been affected by exposure to Xylene at a semi-detached property.

Xylene is a chemical used as a cleaning agent and a thinner for paint and varnishes

The casualty died at the scene, despite the best efforts of the emergency services.

The fire service statement continued: "Another individual that was at the property was also examined by paramedics. It was determined that the person had not been exposed.

"A multi-agency meeting took place and a plan was formulated to examine a works van outside the premises for possible chemical spill. The van was examined and deemed safe shortly after.

"Crews made up their equipment, before completing an external handover with Merseyside Police, then left the scene at 12.45pm."

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: "We can confirm that emergency services attended a report of concern for the safety of a man in Billinge this morning (Saturday, September 28).

"At around 10.20am, officers were called to Douglas Avenue to reports a man in his 50s had suffered a cardiac arrest. Paramedics attended and he was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

"The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and his next of kin have been informed".