Hero neighbour saves family from arsonists

Reporter: Kirsty Rigg
Date online: 26/11/2008

A hero neighbour risked his life to save a mother and daughter from an arsonist who smoked their house out.

At approximately 1.40am this morning (Wednesday 26 November), a man was at home on Nelson Street, Middleton, when he heard screaming from a neighbour's house. 

He smashed the window of the front door and went inside the house, which was full of smoke.

He then managed to help out the 24-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter, who were both inside.

The scene was made safe shortly afterwards by the Fire Service. 

Both victims were taken to Royal Oldham Hospital for treatment to smoke inhalation, but neither was seriously injured.

Detective Constable John Carter said: "This was an act of arson, with the clear intention to put the lives of a young mother and daughter at danger.

"We would like to reassure the community that this type of event is very rare in Middleton, and we are doing everything we can to track down those responsible. 

"We do believe, however, that there is somebody out there who has information that can help us. So if you do know anything, please get in touch."

Anyone with any information should call police on 0161 856 4646 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.