A FIRE which damaged a van, car and wheelie bin is believed to have been started deliberately last night.

Police and fire fighters are investigating after a Volkswagen van went up in flames in Dicconson Lane.

Crews from Horwich were called to a row of terraced houses on the road just after 11.20pm and the van, which was parked on private land, was in flames on arrival.

The fire had also spread to a nearby wheelie bin and Toyota Aygo, melting its plastic bumpers.

It is believed the fire could have been started using an accelerant such as petrol.

Horwich watch manager Glyn McGann said: “The fire burnt out the van’s engine compartment and was getting to the inside of the vehicle when we stopped it.

“We have found that the cause of the fire is suspicious.

“There were lots of people outside, including the owner. It’s a small community down there and they are all pretty close.

“We will be going back down there to reassure them and appeal for information of CCTV footage of persons attacking suspicious in the area or carry a petrol can.”

Anyone one with information is asked to contact police on 101.