CUMBRIA Police have arrested two people in connection with a suspected arson attack in Barrow.

In the early hours of Sunday morning a wheelie bin was set on fire outside a terraced house on Gleaston Avenue, Barrow in Furness.

The Police and Fire Service were called to the address at 5.25am after being alerted by a resident.

The fire had ignited the kitchen door at the front of the house and the outer wall mounted gas meter had been caught by the flames.

On arrival the occupants of the house and neighbouring properties had to be evacuated due to the extent of the fire and safety issues with the gas appliance.

Police have confirmed that a 28-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman from Barrow were arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Both are currently in custody at Barrow Police Station whilst enquiries continue in the area.

Detective Sergeant Mike Wallace said: “We can confirm that thankfully no-one suffered injuries following this incident.

"We appeal to anyone who has any information on this incident to get in touch to assist us in our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 101 and ask to speak to an officer from Barrow CID.