POLICE and fire investigators were today investigating a midnight arson attack at a Nelson factory.

Residents were evacuated from their homes as fire swept through the mid terrace factory of Ronfern Ltd, bedspread manufacturers, in Albert Street.

The fire broke out shortly before midnight and at its height was tackled by 60 firefighters from across East Lancashire.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service Assistant Chief Officer John Williamson said the fire was started deliberately and that an investigation was being co-ordinated between investigation officers and police. The service's sniffer dog Burnie was at the scene today helping with the inquiries.

ACO Williamson said eight pumps and various other specialist appliances attended.

The factory is used for the manufacture of bedspreads and included machinery and large quantities of fabrics.

ACO Williamson said the deep seated fire spread throughout the upper floor causing the stairways to collapse.

Local residents were evacuated as a precaution. Houses closest to the factory were affected by smoke.

Five jets and two aerial monitors were used to bring the fire under control. Fire appliances were still at the scene this morning.

Scenes of crime attended as extensive police inquiries got under way.