Inquiries into arson flat blaze

Police at the scene of the fire in Newby Crescent

Police and fire investigators examined the scene of the blaze

Inquiries are continuing into an arson attack at a flat in Harrogate which has left a 93-year-old woman seriously ill.

The woman was rescued by firefighters who found her in a ground floor flat on Newby Crescent in the Jennyfields area on Saturday night.

She was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. Police said she remained in a critical condition.

Fire investigators at the scene on Sunday said the blaze had been started deliberately outside the flat's porch.

Two cats in a neighbouring property died as a result of the fire. Police said the 53-year-old female owner was out at the time.

This is an extremely serious incident and one which could still have tragic consequences

Det Insp Heather Pearson

Detectives said the 93-year-old woman, originally from China, had lived in Harrogate for a number of years and was an established member of the community.

A mobile police station has been set up in Newby Crescent and people are being urged to call in to help the inquiry.

Det Insp Heather Pearson, of Harrogate Police, said: "This is an extremely serious incident and one which could still have tragic consequences.

"It is important that the offender or offenders are arrested as soon as possible and brought to justice for endangering lives.

"The crucial period we are looking at is between 6pm and 8pm.

"I urge all witnesses or anyone who was in the area at the time to contact police immediately. Even the smallest piece of information could prove vital to the investigation."