A FIRE that spread to around 20 acres of land in Flintshire is being treated as 'suspicious' by police.

North Wales Police say the incident took place on Wednesday, August 3.

Officers say a 'large fire' occurred in fields near Penarlag Primary School and Lincoln Road in Ewloe.

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A police spokesman said: "Approximately 20 acres of land that had been planted with spring barley, which was ready to be harvested, was lost with a substantial financial loss to the owner.

"At this time the fire is being treated as suspicious and inquiries are in hand with officers from the Rural Crime Team. If anyone has any information that might help please get in touch with North Wales Police.

"Members of the public are asked to take care when walking on farmland, especially in dry weather, and to ensure that all used cigarettes and rubbish are taken home with them and not discarded."

Anyone with information should contact North Wales Police quoting reference number 2200564548.

A spokesperson for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called on August 3 at 1.30pm to the fire in the open, Carlines Avenue, Ewloe. The fire is down on our system as cause unknown."