An arson investigation has begun after a fire at an empty flat in Ingol.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service say the flat, on the first floor of a two-storey mid-terrace house, was deliberately set alight.

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The fire ruptured a gas main and three neighbouring homes in Tag Croft were evacuated due to the escape of gas.

Two fire engines and crews from Preston were assigned to the fire and crews put out the fire and used portable fans to disperse the heat and smoke.

Neighbours watched on during the early hours of Saturday morning, as the fire was reported at 1.53am.

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Utility companies also attended to fix the gas and electric supplies and no one was hurt.

Preston Police are now investigating the suspected arson attack.

It’s the second fire in Tag Croft this year, with a chip pan fire seeing homes evacuated in January.