POLICE are calling on all Clifton residents to help them catch the arsonists responsible for fire bombing an elderly couple out of their homes.

They are urging anyone with CCTV at their home which covers a road, pavement or alleyway to check its film between 8pm and 10pm on Friday.

Detectives are particularly keen to hear of any sightings of two men in dark clothing or anyone carrying a petrol can or similar container.

The couple who are aged 78 and 81 were going about their normal evening routine in the house where they have lived for several decades when the arsonsts attacked.

They had no warning before a blazing object, possibly a petrol bomb, smashed through the front downstairs window of their home in Lucas Avenue, Clifton.

Flames rapidly engulfed the room and burst through the window as the couple made their escape. Despite firefighters from York and Acomb battling the blaze for an hour, their house was so badly damaged, it is now uninhabitable.

Police have stepped up patrols in the area to reassure residents and are carrying out a major investigation to find those responsible.

Detective Constable Adam Heatlie, of York CID, said: “This was a callous and cowardly attack on an elderly couple, which has deprived them of their home of 40 years. The couple are obviously deeply distressed and shocked by what has happened. It could so easily have had tragic consequences.

“We do not know why anyone would target this property, at this stage we have not ruled out the possibility that this was a case of mistaken identity. Either way those responsible showed no concern for the outcome. ”

Police have found a green plastic five litre petrol can nearby which they believe may be connected to the incident.

Much of the couple's furniture, television and other items were destroyed in the blaze. Fifteen square metres of the house suffered fire damage and the rest of the building suffered extensive smoke damage.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information should contact York CID by ringing North Yorkshire Police on 101 or can give information annoymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting reference number 12120042213.