Five hurt in arson attack on family home

Police are still at the scene to conduct further enquiries and to provide reassurance to the community

An appeal has been launched after a "targeted" arson attack on family's home.

A family of five including three young children were injured in the blaze at a house on Halifax Road, Rochdale, at about 20:30 BST on Wednesday, Greater Manchester Police said.

The force said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

No arrests have been made and an investigation is underway. Det Insp Katie Buntine said it was a "disturbing incident" which placed the family at risk of serious harm.

She said: "This is a disturbing incident where a property has been targeted, placing a family and three young children at risk of serious harm.

"Our investigation is in the early stages, and we will remain at the scene today whilst we conduct further enquiries and to provide a visible reassurance to the community."

She appealed for the public’s help in identifying who was responsible and asked anyone with information to contact the force.

"This includes any relevant dashcam footage - it is a busy road with plenty of vehicles including taxis and buses, which may well have captured something," she said.

She added GMP was "committed to identifying those responsible for this reckless behaviour, which could have had devastating consequences for this family, and ensuring that they face justice."