The occupant of a flat in Avenham had a lucky escape when arsonists targeted their flat.

Preston Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service were called to Avenham Lane around 2am on Wednesday (24 April).

They found the doorway of a ground floor flat was alight.

The fire had spread to the hallway, lounge and a bedroom causing extensive damage.

Several other properties were evacuated by emergency services as the fire caused a significant gas leak.

The occupier of the flat managed to escaped uninjured.

A police spokesman said: “We would now like to speak to anybody with information that could help with our investigation. Perhaps you know who is responsible, or maybe you were in the area saw something that seemed suspicious. Whatever you know we would ask you to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting log number 76 of April 24.

Or you can reach Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines