EIGHT people have been arrested after a suspected early-morning arson attack in Nelson.

Firefighters and police were called to the mid-terrace house in Albion Street, Nelson, today.

Two women, aged 17 and 22, were woken up at around 2.30am by men shouting threats and banging on the door.

They looked out of the window and saw a Ford Fiesta in flames near the front door.

Fire crews were called and managed to tackle the blaze which wrecked the car and damaged the door.

Resident Anna Howarth, 52, who lives just off Albion Street, said: “I heard some disturbance but I was shocked to find out it was an arson attack.

“We have youngsters causing nuisance around this area but this situation is really bad if they did try and set fire to a house.

“The problem is that they give young people in the area a bad name, and older people like me will be nervous about them.

“I hope everyone is okay and the police find those responsible.”

DI Dave Groombridge, from Nelson CID, said: “Thankfully the house was not severely damaged and both occupants were able to exit unassisted and uninjured.

"However, had they been asleep and therefore not able to call for assistance, the situation could have been much worse.

“Prompt police action has resulted in a total of eight people being arrested in connection with the fire but our investigation is still at an early stage.

“Officers are currently busy conducting door to door enquiries and checking CCTV and we have forensics experts meticulously examining the car and door for any clues.

“We would like anyone who saw any vehicles or individuals on Albion Street at the time of the incident to come forward.

“This is a very serious case and we will leave no stone unturned.”

The car was severely damaged and the house received minor damage to the outside of the door and door casing.

Anyone with any information call Nelson CID on 01282 472444 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.