AN ARSONIST is being sought who started a fire at a home that "could have easily have spread to other houses".

The blaze began at the property in Leigh Road, Westhoughton, at around 10pm on Sunday.

Police were contacted by firefighters who were in attendance tackling a fire at the back of the address.

Further investigation has revealed that the fire was deliberately started after a flammable liquid was poured through the letterbox on a rear door of the property and set alight.

No one was home at the time of the fire.

Detective Constable Stuart Round, of Bolton South and Central Integrated Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Thanks to neighbours quickly taking action and calling the fire service, they were able to contain this fire relatively quickly.

"However, it could easily have spread throughout the house and to other houses nearby, putting innocent people’s lives in serious danger."

It is understood a man in a hooded top was seen approaching the door with a petrol can before running off in the direction of the roundabout junction of Leigh Road and Hartford Road.

There was minor fire damage to the home and some smoke damage.

Det Con Round said: "We have sadly seen before the tragic consequences that can arise from people’s reckless actions by starting fires in this way, and we are doing all we can to identify the person responsible for this act on Sunday evening.

"If anyone has any information about who may be responsible, I am asking them to please come forward and tell us what you know.

"Or if you saw someone acting suspiciously in the area just before or after this incident, then please give us a call."

The police are appealing for anyone who may have sold fuel to someone in a petrol can over the weekend to get in touch.

Anyone with information should contact police at Scholey Street police station on 0161 856 5619 or alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.