Oswaldtwistle store arson 'put lives at risk'
Detectives have condemned arsonists who they say put lives at risk by setting fire to a shop in Lancashire.
The fire was started at a convenience store in Blackburn Road, Oswaldtwistle, late on Wednesday night.
A number of residents tried to enter the shop thinking there may have been someone trapped inside.
A 40-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and bailed pending further inquires. Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses.
Lancashire police are treating the fire as suspicious and are carrying out a joint investigation with the fire service.
Anyone who saw the fire, or who saw any vehicles leaving the scene - particularly a white van - is urged to contact the police.
Officers are also appealing for anyone who visited the shop before the fire, which broke out at about 2300 BST, to come forward.
Det Sgt Paul Langley said: "This was a reckless act which put the lives of nearby residents and other members of the public in danger.
"These people risked their lives thinking there may have been someone trapped in the shop. I urge anyone with information to contact the police."