A SECURITY guard told last night how he was saved by passers-by after being set on fire on his own doorstep.

The 43-year-old was left with burns to his hands, neck and chest after the attack as he answered the door.

Recovering in his County Durham home, the guard - who does not wish to be identified for fear of further attacks - is now terrified of being left alone and will not open his front door to anyone.

He said: "I have no idea who did this. All I can remember is having what felt like cold water being thrown over me and the next minute I was ablaze.''

Police are hunting for four people in connection with the vicious attack in York Close, Leeholme, near Bishop Auckland, at about 10pm on Friday night.

As he stepped outside following a knock on his door, the victim had lighter fuel thrown over him and he was set alight.

Luckily, passers-by rushed to his rescue helping him to dowse the flames and rip off his shirt.

He said: "I don't know what would have happened if they hadn't been there.

"The hospital has told me if it wasn't for that and the fact that I was wearing a thermal vest underneath my shirt I would have been seriously burned and scarred for life or maybe even worse.

"I am constantly taking painkillers but I am not bothered about the pain what frightens me is having to go out again. I have no enemies, I haven't been here long."

Detective Sergeant Brian Wilkes, from Bishop Auckland CID, said: "This was an horrific attack and the victim was fortunate not to have been more seriously injured. We believe that four people were involved."

Witnesses should contact Bishop Auckland CID on (01388) 603566 or telephone Crimestoppers, free, on 0800 555 111.

The attack follows the death of a Hertfordshire man who was dowsed in petrol and set alight near his home in the early hours of Thursday.