A family has been rehomed after a suspected arson attack in Welwyn Garden City on Saturday morning.

Herts police is appealing for information after the fire in a second floor flat in Haymeads at 3am.

Detective Inspector Michael Macbeth said: “Fortunately no-one was injured but smoke damage from the fire spread into the communal areas of the block. The family has been rehomed.

“We have been working closely with Herts Fire and Rescue to establish the cause of the fire, which started in one of the bedrooms. Anyone with any information about the fire is asked to contact us.

“I’d like to reassure the public that we believe this is an isolated incident.”

Anyone with information can report it online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator via the online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 90 and the date 30/12/2023. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.