An investigation is underway to trace an arsonist who set fire the door of a house in Baguley at the weekend.

Police say the attack could have had fatal consequences and are appealing for help to find the attacker.

The incident happened between 6.30am and 6.50am on Saturday 18 April 2015, when a 39-year-old man was asleep at home on Arden Lodge Road, Baguley.

He woke up when he heard a noise and could see smoke and flames coming from the back door.

He attempted to put the flames out himself.  Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and extinguished the fire.

It would appear that a flammable substance had been sprayed or poured over the door and then set alight.

The man was not injured, but there was significant damage to the back door.

Police are now appealing to anyone with information to come forward and have launched a joint investigation with the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Detective Inspector Andy Gallagher from South Manchester division, said: “Luckily this man woke up to the smell of smoke and the flames were extinguished before the fire could take hold.

“If he had not been disturbed this fire could have had fatal consequences, we do not know why his home was targeted, but believe it was an isolated incident.  We clearly need to find the person or persons responsible so we can help the victim make sense of what has happened.

“I would appeal to anyone who has information about what happened to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.