POLICE are hunting an arsonist who struck at a house in Dalton early today.

Firefighters battled to stop the blaze spreading through the mid-terrace house in Harpe Inge, after being called at 2.45am.

Petrol had been used to fuel the fire, which ripped through the downstairs rooms and spread to the rest of the house.

Smoke pouring from the blaze forced occupants of the adjoining houses to flee.

Fire crews had to search the house as there were fears that people may be inside, but it was empty.

A fire investigation team later joined detectives to investigate the attack.

A police spokesman said the blaze was being treated as suspicious and inquiries are continuing.