POLICE are appealing for help in tracing arsonists who tried to set a flat on fire.
The attack at a block of flats in the centre of Newcastle occurred during the firefighters' 48-hour strike.
Flame accelerant was poured through the letterbox at one of the flats, in the city's Bewick Court, and ignited just after midnight on Thursday.
But the fire was discovered by a resident, who alerted the occupants of the flat and then extinguished the flames.
The incident is being treated as arson by Northumbria Police, who last night appealed for information.
A spokesman said: "This is a serious incident and is being investigated as arson, which has the potential to take life."
Anyone with information is asked to call Market Street CID, on 0191-214 6555.
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