DETECTIVES are investigating two suspected arson attacks on two separate properties in the same Barrow street.

Around 20 firefighters were called to a blaze on Low White Close, Ormsgill on Monday and then again on Wednesday.

In Monday’s incident a man suffered burns and had to be treated for smoke inhalation.

While, on Wednesday fire crews had to rescue people from the burning building.

Detectives said the cause of the two fires was suspicious and an investigation has now been launched.

Residents in Ormsgill described the situation as “scary” adding there had been “trouble brewing” for a long time.

A mum-of-three, who lives in Low White Close, said: “There’s been trouble for ages, and the police are here probably every other week.

“The fires have only just been this week though, and people are worried. The one last night, people were stuck in the flat and had to be rescued.

“Nobody is sure why they are being started - there’s lots of speculation and it’s scary.”

The fires have gutted both flats.

Steph Hickey, 30, who lives in the flats opposite, said: “These fires are freaking us out a bit. It has been two different flats, so people are wondering if it’ll be theirs next.

“We don’t know what is doing it.”

A Barrow Council worker, sent to inspect the properties, said: “I live in Ormsgill, so it’s worrying, but people are guarded so you don’t really hear anything.

“There are some things posted on Facebook, but it’s hard to know who to believe.”

Cllr Bill McEwan, Ormsgill ward councillor and mayor of Barrow, said: ““I’m shocked at this news, my heart goes out to the residents affected.

“They have every right to be scared, things like this shouldn’t be happening, they will be frightened.”

A police spokesman said: “We can confirm we are investigating these incidents.

“A 39-year-old man from the Barrow area was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He is currently in police custody.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101.