A FAMILY of eight people has escaped uninjured after an arson attack on their home.

The family dog alerted George Waters when what police call "an incendiary device" was thrown through the front window of his house in Peel Street, Hendon, Sunderland, shortly after 2.30am today.

Mr Waters got his wife Pamela, five children, and a family friend out of the building before fire crews arrived.

Those rescued from the house were aged between five and 62. They were given a check-up by ambulance crews, but did not need hospital treatment.

Police arrived at the scene and cordoned off the area while an investigation was carried out.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said the force could not give details of the incendiary device while officers were investigating the arson attack.

A Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade spokesman said one square metre of carpet had been burned, and the three-storey house was smoke damaged.

Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information should contact Sunderland City CID, on 0191-454 7555, extension 66143.