House set on fire in arson attack

Arson attacked house - Great Bent Close, Smallbridge

Three people were rescued during an arson attack on a house in Rochdale.

Shortly after 4.05am this morning, Saturday 19 July 2008, police were called to an address on Great Bent Close, Smallbridge, following reports of a fire.

Officers attended and discovered an accelerant had been used to set fire to the front of the house.

Three occupants, aged 26, 23 and seven, were rescued by fire fighters.

A woman, described as in her 20s, 5ft 6in tall, of medium build and wearing a Trespass jacket and blue jeans was seen to run away from the scene.

Detective Sergeant Rebecca Matthews of Rochdale CID said: "This was a deliberate act of arson that could quite easily resulted in devastating consequences. Fortunately all those inside the house were uninjured.

"I would appeal to anyone that may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area, or who knows who may be responsible to contact police."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4646, or Crimestoppers anonyoulsy on 0800 555 111