POLICE are making a further appeal for information after a house in Sunderland was targeted in a suspected arson.

Between 1.40am and 1.50am on Sunday, May 31, a man set alight an object and put it through the letter box of an address on Sea Road.

A fire broke out and the only occupant, a 25-year-old woman, was rescued by firefighters and taken to hospital with smoke inhalation.

Police are treating the fire as an arson and want to appeal for anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time of the incident to get in touch.

Detective Inspector Paul Stewart said: "This was a serious incident that could have ended far more tragically if it had not been for the good work of police and the fire service.

"A number of cars were travelling on Sea Road at the time of the offence and I believe that somebody may have seen the suspect immediately before or after he committed the offence.

"I want to appeal to anyone who saw anybody acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the fire to get in touch, specifically a male who was wearing dark clothing.

"Any information, no matter how small you think it may be, could help bring the offender to justice."

Anyone witnesses, or anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time of the incident, should contact police on 101 extension 69191 quoting reference 153 31/05/15 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.