A COUPLE fear for the lives of their children after vandals torched their car.

And they are so anxious to find the culprits they have offered a £500 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Jonathan Meyer, 34, of Crewdson Street, said the black BMW 325i, which he shares with his partner, was parked in Harwood Street, Darwen, when it was set on fire yesterday morning.

The interior of the K-reg soft-top convertible was burned out and several explosions were heard before the firefighters arrived.

Jonathan, who is unemployed, like his partner, said: "I was awoken by the first explosion which must have been the glass shattering. I went outside and the fire brigade was there.

"My concern is that if these people can do that to a car what could they do to your house, especially if there are children inside?

His partner, who did not want to be named, was woken by a bang.

The mother-of two, of Harwood Street, said: "It's scary because I've got an 18-month-old and a seven-year-old child.

"We don't know if they are targeting us for some reason and are going to come back.

"That car was our pride and joy even though we'd had it a while.

"That's why we're offering a reward."

DC Cathy Robertshaw, of Darwen CID, said: "Officers are trying to establish any motive and would appeal for eyewitnesses to come forward."