Woman and child rush out of house following arson

A Middleton woman had to rush out of her own house with her grandchild after arsonists started a fire.

At about 11pm on Thursday 22 August 2013, the offenders started the fire through the letterbox of the house on Great Arbor Way, setting the curtains inside the door alight.

The 42-year-old woman inside was woken by the sound of her smoke alarm. When she went to check and found the fire, she grabbed her three-year-old granddaughter, ran downstairs past the fire and left through the back door.

Neighbours were called and managed to put the fire out quickly.

Both the woman and the girl were taken to hospital for treatment to smoke inhalation, but neither suffered serious injuries.

Detective Sergeant Diane Johnson said: "This was a terrifying experience for this woman, who woke to find herself in immediate danger. She has no idea why this happened.

"Nobody we have spoken to saw the offenders so we are appealing for any possible witnesses to come forward.

"We have launched a thorough investigation to find those responsible."

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8782 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.