DETECTIVES investigating a terrifying arson attack on a mum and her teenage daughter are appealing for help to trace a car used in the incident.

Julie Ingram was on her way back to her home in Ebor Street, in Burnley, when she saw a man outside her door trying to put a lit, petrol-soaked rag through her letter box.

Her 14-year-old daughter, Charlotte, had taken the day off school because she was ill and was in bed inside the house.

The incident, which happened at around 9am on Tuesday morning, is now being investigated by Burnley CID. Officers say the house was specifically targeted.

DS Jon Bullas said: "We are treating the incident as serious - there was someone in the house at the time. There a lot of people in the area at the time and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed it to come forward.

"We are particularly keen to trace a green Mitsubishi Colt, registration, R656MFH, which we believe the offender drove off in."

The man is described as white, aged 18 to 23, 5ft 5in to 5ft 8in tall and of slim build.

He had a pale complexion, short cropped dark hair and was wearing a navy blue jacket, possibly with cream and red down the sides, dark coloured trousers and trainers.

Anyone with information about the incident or the offender is asked to telephone Jon Bullas, at Burnley CID, on 01282 472144.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.