A MAN has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with arson following a fire at a house in Queen Street, Oswaldtwistle on Friday.

Anthony Dickinson, 53, of Queen Street, was charged with arson at his home address being reckless as to life was endangered. He was sent in custody to Burnley Crown Court where he will appear on June 11.

Tracy Yates, prosecuting, said the house subject of the charge was a mid terrace property and the houses either side had been occupied.

She said a special fire brigade sniffer dog had identified accelerants on clothing recovered by police.