A MAN was spotted running away from a suspected arson attack in Newcastle, one of a series of suspicious blazes on Tyneside.

Detectives are investigating 11 attacks on buildings in Newcastle and Gateshead, which have caused hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of damage.

A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said a number of the offences may be linked, but officers had not ruled out the possibility of more than one person being involved.

A man was seen running away from 18-storey Cale Cross House, Newcastle, just before it went up in flames at 10pm on September 4.

The spokeswoman said: "It is believed the person responsible ran from outside the premises on to the western approach to the Tyne Bridge, leading to the Pilgrim Street roundabout.

"Anyone in the area at this time who saw the man leaving the area, or anyone acting suspiciously before the fire broke out, is asked to contact police."

Details have also been released of a petrol can found at one of the fires. The can is a normal red petrol container, but has been sprayed with black and silver paint.

An incident room has been set up at Newcastle's Market Street police station. Call 0191-214 6555, extension 62103