TWO firefighters have been injured after a ceiling collapsed on top of them as they tackled a suspected arson attack.

The firefighters, both wearing breathing apparatus, were trying to open a steel shutter to get into the burning building in Penshaw, near Sunderland, when they were hit by falling debris.

One was pulled clear of the door by colleagues and taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital suffering from a suspected neck injury and burn to the back, the second was also taken to the same hospital with a suspected neck injury.

Both were discharged this morning and are now recovering at home.

A police investigation has now been launched into the cause of the fire, which ripped through the former Penshaw House Community Home, a former children’s home in Station Road just before 11.30pm last night (Tuesday, October 15).

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Chris Lowther, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I am absolutely appalled that this has happened. Whoever has started this fire has put the lives of innocent people at risk and if it wasn’t due to the professionalism and training of our excellent firefighters there is no doubt this could have been much more serious.

“Setting fires deliberately may seem like fun to some people but this shows the stark reality – they can result in injury and in some cases much worse.”

Fire Brigades Union Brigade Secretary Tyne and Wear, Russ King, said: “It is deeply worrying that this happens in this day and age.

“Through the actions of these individuals they have injured two firefighters and placed the community and firefighters at increased risk.

“Fire appliances can’t be in two places at the same time. People have got to realise the consequences to their actions and I am sure the local community will be horrified to hear this happened.”

Police are investigating the fire which is being treated as arson and are appealing for witnesses, anyone who was in the area and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious is asked to contact them.

Neighbourhood Inspector Lisa Musgrove said: "We are asking for anyone who was in the area at the relevant time and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious to contact us.

"We also want to remind people of the dangers of setting fires. Not only do they pose a danger to the members of the public, but also to the emergency services who have to deal with the aftermath of such incidents."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.