AN investigation is under way after two suspected arson attacks at houses in Branch Road, Burnley, last night

Fires were reported at separate houses at 7pm and 11.30pm. Firefighters said on both occasions lit waste paper was pushed through window frames at the back of the homes.

The fires then spread to curtains and into the kitchens. No-one was injured. Police believe the fires are linked.

A spokesman for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service gave a warning to people living next to unoccupied homes.

The spokesman: "Unfortunately when you have unoccupied houses it is difficult to stop people throwing rubbish in back yards.

"If they live next door to an empty property people need to make sure they have smoke alarms."