A TEAM of 22 firefighters tackled a suspected arson attack at a house in Woodrow on Sunday morning.

Three crews from Redditch and one from Studley were called to reports of a terraced house "well alight" in Pedmore Close at 7.18am.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service spokesman, Alec Mackie, said: "Neighbours told the fire brigade they thought the property was occupied.

"However, after an extensive search, it was found to be empty, which was lucky.

"There were two starting points of the fire - one in the bedroom upstairs and another in the living room. This leads us to believe it was started deliberately.

"We believe there was also a quantity of property stolen.

"It looks as if the perpetrators broke in, took what they wanted and then started a fire to destroy the evidence."

He added: "The house has been extensively damaged by this fire."

The crew spent the rest of the day in Pedmore Close to ensure the fire had not spread to neighbouring houses.

Redditch police are investigating the incident and DC Wayne Cashion is appealing for witnesses to call him on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Two men were arrested in connection with the incident and have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.