AN arson attack at a new Burnley tattoo parlour was targeted to stop it opening, police believe.

An investigation launched after the blaze, at Acherontia in Hall Street, found an accelerant was poured through the letterbox and set alight shortly after midnight on Monday.

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DS Alisa Wilson, from Burnley CID, said: “The owner has spent the last five weeks getting the business ready for its first day of trading.

“The premises has sustained significant smoke damage and is now unable to open as planned.

“I would like to reassure nearby businesses and shop workers that I believe this is an isolated attack, deliberately planned to stop the tattoo studio opening.”

After smouldering for several hours, the fire was put out by a crew of 10 firefighters from Burnley Fire Station at around 7am.

The team of tattooists at the shop – owner Wayne Porter, Jason Riley, and apprentice Samantha Beedie – have been forced to remain closed until work to clean up the mess has been completed.

DS Wilson added: “I am also keen for anyone who works at a petrol station in the Burnley area and who has sold petrol in a jerry can to a customer significantly prior to the offence to contact police.”

Call police on 101 quoting 135/071014.

Or report any information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.