A BLAZE started by arsonists could have had "disastrous" consequences, Kidderminster police have warned.

Launching an appeal for information about who might have been responsible, they added that it was only the actions of a passer-by that prevented a tragedy by reporting a fire in a Rifle Range Road maisonette.

Following the incident, which happened in the early hours of Friday, Det Sgt Lee Davenport said: "Whoever started this fire has done it with complete disregard for the safety of the other occupants of the building.

"If a member of the public, who happened to be passing by after midnight, had not spotted the blaze and reported it to the fire brigade, the consequences could have been disastrous.

"The flames were already beginning to spread towards the flat of an elderly occupant next door. The fire service attended and, very quickly, brought the fire under control.

"But the fact remains that the occupants of the other 11 flats in the building were put in danger by the actions of whoever started the fire"

He added: "We are deeply concerned that people's lives have been put at risk and it is vitally important that we find the person or persons responsible.We are appealing to anyone who knows anything about this fire to talk with us."

Anyone with information can contact Kidderminster Police Station, on 01562 820888 or, anonymously, on 0800 555111.