Opel is to write to 8,000 Zafira owners in Ireland after some of the cars reportedly burst into flames worldwide.

The company says the fires are linked to the heating and ventilation systems, but will not speculate as to the cause of the fault.

The models affected are all right-hand drive cars, made between 2005 and 2014 and include non-climate controlled versions.

The letters will tell owners to visit their local dealer for an inspection. Inspections will be paid for by Opel.