Three people escape arson attack on Turf Hill estate

Date published: 27/07/2006

Three people escaped a fire at a house in Rochdale this morning.

Shortly before 6am, Wednesday 26 July 2006, police were called to the fire on Ansdell Road, Turf Hill.

It is believed a settee in the back garden had been pushed against the back door and set on fire.

A 17-year-old boy was awoken by the smoke alarm and alerted the other two men, aged 23 and 31, that were asleep in the house. They all jumped out of the back bedroom window onto the roof of an extension, where they then jumped to the ground.

None of them were injured, however damage was caused to the back door and garden fencing. Extensive smoke damage was also caused to the upstairs of the house.

A youth was seen at the back of the house shortly before the incident. He is described as white, aged 15 to 18, 5ft 6in, of medium build with blond hair. He was wearing a blue t-shirt with a motif on the chest area.

Detectives are appealing for information about the incident are asking anyone with any further information to contact Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4897 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.