ARSONISTS are believed to have been responsible for a blaze that broke out at a recently sold house.

Police were today investigating the fire at the mid-terrace property in Tunstill Street, Burnley, and are appealing for witnesses to contact them.

Firebugs are thought to have started several fires in the property around 10pm before making off from the scene.

Sub Officer Neil Mark said: "There was severe fire damage to the kitchen and smoke damage to the rest of the ground floor of the house.

"We have good reason to believe that it was started deliberately after finding several seats of fire within the property.

"It had recently been sold but was still empty. There was a potential danger for the neighbours on either side.

If the fire was allowed to develop the neighbours could have been in serious danger.

"We went round to the houses on each side of the property and gave fire advice and fitted smoke alarms.

"Our advice to anybody living next door to empty houses is to ensure that they have a fire alarm which they check is working on a regular basis."

A police spokesman said: "We were called to the property at around 10pm last night after the fire brigade requested our attendance. We believe the fire was started deliberately and were continuing our investigations today.

"We would urge anybody with information to contact us."

Anybody with information should contact police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.