POLICE are investigating a suspected arson attack on a house in South Bank, Middlesbrough.

It happened on Beaver Court in South Bank at around 7.30pm on Friday night.

A tyre was placed against the back door of the property and set alight, causing fire damage to the door.

Luckily a family member went into the kitchen and saw the blaze and the fire brigade were called before any further damage could be done.

The incident is being treated as a possible hate crime and the occupants of the property are being supported by officers.

Detectives are investigating the incident and are appealing for anyone with information or who may have seen something suspicious around that time to get in contact.

People in the area are also asked to check any private CCTV they may have. Anyone with information is asked to call Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting 044749 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.