AN arson attack on a house in Burnley is under investigation.

The fire in Robinson Street, Daneshouse, was started by someone reaching in through the letter box and setting fire to a scarf.

The burning scarf dropped down setting fire to papers, a plastic milk crate and curtains.

Sub Officer John Davies said: "When we arrived there was a fire going behind the door. We smashed a front window to gain entry and used a hose reel on the flames."

Fire damage was confined to the hallway with smoke damage to other rooms of the mid terraced house.

Mr Davies said: "Fortunately there was no-one in at the time members of the family returning about 20 minutes later."

There was no answer to callers at the house this morning.

Next door neighbour Brian Threlfall who raised the alarm said: "I heard a bang on my door and when I answered there was a young lad who said the house next door was on fire.

"I looked and saw flames behind the window."

Mr Threlfall said: "I knew there was no-one in at the time. They are a pleasant family, mum, dad and two children who have a take-away near to the Dragoon pub."

Police were called to the scene last night and inquiries are continuing.