THREE people escaped without injury after a North Yorkshire house was targeted in a suspected arson attack.

North Yorkshire Fire Service were called to reports of a fire at a house in Howden Road, Barlby, near Selby, at about 2.45am today.

A spokeswoman for North Yorkshire Police said the front door of the house had been set on fire deliberately, but said the occupants of the house, believed to be two women and a man, were able to get out of the house without being injured.

Two fire engines were sent to the scene from Selby, and fire investigation officers remain at the property this morning, along with police, to begin an investigation into the cause of the fire. The extent of the damage is not yet known.

The police spokeswoman said nobody had yet been arrested in connection with the fire, and encouraged anyone with information to contact them on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

More to follow.