Man started fire 'in hope of getting council house'

Police said it was "clear" John Hodson required mental health support in prison

A man who set fire to his bedroom in the hope of getting a council property has been jailed.

John Hodson, of Netherton near Peterborough, set fire to the mattress in his room at his father's house at 07:30 BST on 15 April.

Cambridgeshire Police said the room filled with thick smoke and the fire service was called out, although no-one was hurt.

The 36-year-old, from Stanford Walk, admitted arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered at Peterborough Crown Court, and was jailed for two years and nine months.

A police spokesperson said Hodson started the fire in a "doomed attempt" to get a council property.

It quickly got out of control, and a lodger threw a bucket of water over it but realised the fire service was needed.

Police said Hodson's father was coughing when he opened the door, and the room was covered in soot and ash, with fire damage to the floor, walls and furniture.

Det Con Robert Wallis said: "Hodson is extremely fortunate that no-one was seriously harmed in this reckless act - he needs to reflect deeply on the consequences of his actions.

"It's clear he requires mental health support, and I hope this sentence marks the beginning of him getting the help he needs."