A MOTHER and her young son were rescued by firefighters last night in what is believed to be a malicious attack.

The woman, who has not been named, and her five-year-old were trapped in their Kempton Rise home, in Blackburn, following the blaze at around 11pm.

Leading firefighter Tony Walmsley said the fire started when something was pushed through the letterbox.

Curtains behind the door quickly set alight and the house was soon filled with thick smoke.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze and, after clearing the house of smoke, led the woman and her son to safety.

Mr Walmsley said: "Whoever did this may have thought they would perhaps cause slight damage, but there is no doubt about it that these lives were put at risk. They were very lucky."

The pair were taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary for check-ups although are said to be unharmed.

Severe damage was caused to the front door and stairs. Much of the house was damaged by smoke.

Police and firefighters are investigating.

Anybody with information should call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.