Arsonists set fire to a Carlisle house - after shoving a lit firework through the letterbox.

Fortunately the property in South Street, off London Road, had a working smoke alarm which alerted the occupant to the flames in the hallway.

He fled out the back door and called 999 from his rear garden at about 12.30am today.

Fire crews from Carlisle east and west fire stations were dispatched, with an initial call for assistance from Longtown - although they were stood down before arrival.

John Murphy, crew manager, said the entire house was filled with smoke, and the hallway was left badly fire-damaged.

"This was an irresponsible act," he told the News & Star, "and the consequences could have been horrific."

Mr Murphy reminded homeowners and tenants to ensure they have working smoke alarms.

The man was checked at the scene by paramedics, but was given the all-clear.

Cumbria Police was also called to the incident, and an investigation is underway.