Police appeal launched after arson attack on Sunderland home

Firefighters were called to Waller Terrace in Houghton just after midnight today.

Two people were taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation.

It is believed the fire was started deliberately and the incident is being treated, by police, as arson.

Officers are carrying out inquiries and asking anyone who has information to get in contact.

Acting Neighbourhood Inspector for the area, Les Goodliff, said: "Luckily the two people in the property were not seriously injured, however, they did suffer from smoke inhalation and were taken to hospital for treatment.

"We believe the fire was started deliberately and are treating the incident as arson and I would ask anyone who saw anything out of the ordinary in Waller Terrace last night to get in contact with us."

Any witnesses is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 0005 020316 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.