ARSONISTS are being blamed for a fire that damaged a maisonette in Kidderminster and could have spread to others.

A member of the public discovered the blaze at the building in Rifle Range Road at 12.18am yesterday and called the fire brigade.

Firefighters brought the fire in the unoccupied maisonette under control, but the flames were threatening to spread towards a flat belonging to an elderly neighbour.

"Whoever started this fire has done it with complete disregard for the safety of the other occupants of the building," said Det Sgt Lee Davenport.

"If a member of the public, who happened to be passing by after midnight last night, hadn't spotted the blaze and reported it to the brigade, the consequences could have been disastrous.

"The fact remains the occupants of the other 11 flats in the building were put in danger by whoever started the fire.

"We're deeply concerned that people's lives have been put at risk and it's vitally important that we find the person or persons responsible."

Anyone with information about the fire should contact police on 01562 820888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 55111.

"Please think about the tragedy that might have taken place and stop it happening in future," said Det Sgt Davenport. "Someone's life could depend on your call."