A MAN died following a suspected arson attack on a house in Darwen last night.

Fire crews found the 38-year-old man at a house in Blackburn Road just before 10pm last night.

A 53-year-old woman was rescued from the house and was taken to hospital and treated for the effects of breathing in smoke.

A witness spotted two youths throwing something through the window of the terrace house before running towards Darwen town centre.

Five other people who were in neighbouring houses fled the smoke.

Forensic officers were examining the scene today.