Large quantities of hoarded material have been found in a house blaze which is feared to have killed an elderly couple.

Combustible materials were "stacked from ceiling to floor" at the semi-detached property in Merseyside, which went up in flames on Sunday afternoon.

Firefighters were called to the property after a passing motorist noticed smoke coming from the building.

The high volume of materials stored in the home caused the fire to spread rapidly to the roof, which later collapsed.

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service said the "significant" hoarding at the property has prevented them gaining access.

The service also said the building has been deemed unstable and added that its Urban Search and Rescue Team and a demolition firm would will first require access before forensic checks can be conducted.

A fire service spokeswoman said: "Having spoken to neighbours on scene, it is possible that the couple, both believed to be elderly, will be found within the property.

"This will only be established following the removal of large quantities of hoarded material which was stacked from ceiling to floor with little or no circulation space."

The elderly couple are believed to have been visited by firefighters in June, but declined a home safety check.

The spokeswoman added: "We would urge members of the public to ensure they have working smoke alarms in their home, check them regularly and ensure that they have clear, safe exits in the event of a fire."