A MIDDLESBROUGH house was set on fire in the early hours of this morning while the occupants slept, according to police.

Officers say the incident occurred at around 5.48am today in Woodville Avenue, Middlesbrough.

All people in the property, including four children, were safely evacuated from the house.

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Detective Inspector Rick Mansell said officers have been carrying out “door-to-door enquiries and patrols.”

He added: “Officers remain in the area this morning.

“The occupants of the property were asleep at the time of this incident and thanks to those who raised the alarm, the emergency services were quickly at the scene. 

“We’d appeal to anyone who saw anything or has any dashcam or CCTV which may assist us to contact police.”

Police say they are appealing for information and CCTV footage and have asked people to get in touch by calling 101 referencing 020145.

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Alternatively people can speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and you don’t have to give your name.

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