Halliwell: Police investigate suspected arson attack

Firefighters were called to a house on Lowry Walk, which runs off Raphael Street, Halliwell, at just after 3.30am, (November 1). 

They were called to reports of a 'building fire' , which turned out to be a shed - the blaze ripped through the building and destroyed its contents, which included a bike.

It also spread to the front of the house, damaging the front door, fascia, guttering and the doorbell. 

Now, Greater Manchester Police has said that officers are treating the incident as an 'arson'. No arrests have yet been made. 

The home where the fire took place (Image: Newsquest) Kingsley Unwin, a firefighter at Bolton Central station, said: "Firefighters were called to a building fire at Raphael Street at 3.33am. 

"It was a shed in the front of the garden that was affected, and it spread to the fascia and front door. No one was harmed. 

"Three pumps were called, two from Bolton Central and one from Bolton North, but it was released prior to attending the incident, as it had been stood down." 

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Burnt bins (Image: Newsquest) He said that the fire service is unsure of the cause at this time. 

He added that there was "nothing harmful to crews" in the shed.

The resident, who wished not to be named, believes that the fire was set deliberately. 

He said: "I had my bike in there, my three gear bike. 

"Police are looking into it. 

"I was asleep when I heard what I would describe as crackling. I had to get out quickly." 

Debris following the fire (Image: Newsquest) He said that the incident was  'terrifying'. 

One of his neighbours said: "A young lad was knocking on doors, saying to get out as there was a fire. 

"It was frightening. The fire service came down, I think it was a good half an hour I had to stay outside for, then the fire came in and checked everything was alright so I could come back in. 

"It was a shame for him, I don't know how it has happened."