A HOUSE fire in a North Yorkshire village at the weekend was arson, police have confirmed.

Detectives are now appealing for information about the incident in Colburn , near Catterick, at about 8.30pm on Sunday, March 31.

The blaze at a property on Carter Close was reported by the homeowner after smoke alarms in the property went off.

Although no-one was hurt the house suffered substantial flame and smoke damage as a result of the fire.

Fire crews were at the scene for around two hours and the bedroom was described as 20 per cent fire damaged.

A female occupant, believed to be in her late teens, was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation but declined hospital treatment.

Detective Constable Gary SmithOwen (correct) said: “If you were in the Carter Close area of Coburn around the time of the fire and noticed any unusual or suspicious activity I urge you to come forward and contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away, as I need to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“I am also keen to speak to anyone who has information about how the fire started and urge them to get in touch.”

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for Gary SmithOwen. Alternatively information can be emailed to gary.smithowen@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.