NEIGHBOURS of a Cutnall Green pensioner whose house was targeted by arsonists have spoken of their shock.

Firefighters were called to the home of a 68-year-old woman in Elmley Close in the early hours of Sunday morning after an incendiary device was put through her letterbox.

The OAP woke at 1.30am after hearing her letterbox rattle and seeing a security light come on.

She ventured out of bed to investigate but smelled smoke. She phoned a neighbour who extinguished a small fire at her front door.

The woman was not hurt. Police investigating the incident do not yet know exactly what the incendiary device was.

DC Steve Cooper said: "The victim was left very shocked but is bearing up well.

"We do not know why anyone would do this.

"The implications of this action could have been very different."

A shocked Elmley Lane resident told the Advertiser: " I can't believe this could happen in our quiet community. It's terrorism.

"Quite a few elderly people live in Elmley Close and I imagine they are terrified."

An Elmley Close resident believed the wrong property was targeted.

The woman said: "I don't think anyone would want to hurt such a lovely person.

"I believe arsonists may have meant to target the former home of a paedophile who once lived in the village with his family."

In May last year, Ronald Green, aged 75, of Earls Croom, admitted sexually abusing a boy of ten and was jailed for two years.

Before he was sentenced, he moved in with his brother, Christopher, in Elmley Lane.

Anyone with information about the arson attack can call police on (01905) 723888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.