Elderly couple narrowly escape arson attack: Kingswood Road, Wortley
(LS12 - Tuesday, 3 August, 2010)

Police are appealing for information after an arson attack on an elderly couple's home in Wortley last night.

At about 11.15pm, the occupants of the property in Kingswood Road, a couple aged in their seventies, were upstairs in bed when they heard a noise.

When they went to investigate they found a ground-floor side window had been smashed and a large amount of flammable liquid had been poured through their back door letterbox.

A subsequent forensic examination of the scene showed the liquid had been ignited but the fire had not taken hold.

Detective Inspector Richard Partis, of North West Leeds Division, said:

"This is clearly a very disturbing incident and something that we are treating extremely seriously.

"Had the fire taken hold it is likely the couple's only escape route would have been blocked and the consequences could obviously have been terrible.

"They are understandably very shocked by what has happened.

"We are carrying out a full investigation into the incident and our enquiries are ongoing. There is no obvious reason why anyone would target this couple in such a serious way.

"I am appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious around the time of the incident or who has any information to contact us immediately."

Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team are maintaining a high-profile presence in the area to reassure residents.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DI Partis at Weetwood police station via 0845 6060606.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: West Yorkshire

Address:
Kingswood Road
Wortley
Leeds
YORKSHIRE
LS12