Investigation begins into Oswestry house arson attack
An investigation has begun into what police are describing as a "deliberate attempt" to set an Oswestry house on fire while four people were inside.
A man, a woman and two children aged three and three months escaped without injury from the house in Maple Court.
The woman was treated for the effects of smoke inhalation after the fire which started shortly after 0100 BST.
Det Insp Mick Homden from West Mercia Police said the outcome could have been more serious.
"This was a deliberate attempt to set the house on fire. It appears a substance was put through the letter box and set alight.
"Fortunately the two adults and two very young children were able to get out without serious mishap, but it could have resulted in a tragedy and the incident is being treated as arson with intent to endanger life," he said.
The front door of the house was scorched and there was smoke damage inside.
Det Insp Homden appealed for public help to identify the arsonists.
"If you saw anyone or possibly a group of people acting suspiciously in the Maple Court area around 1230 BST to 0200 BST please contact the police," he said.