POLICE are investigating a suspected arson attack at a three-story unit, at Groundwork, New Hall Hey Road, Rawtenstall, at 8.25pm on Saturday night.

Pallets and water paper were set on fire, causing damage to external cladding and windows. Two large windows will need replacing on the ground floor unit and three on the upper floor.

Firefighters are now warning people to keep combustible materials away from buildings to prevent avoidable damage.

Sub Officer Nigel Boden, said: "We have had quite a few similar incidents in the area in recent weeks. The problem is that people are storing waste products too near to buildings. and it's causing a lot of damage.

"We are trying to preach good housekeeping procedures because, in some cases, it has destroyed people's businesses. The advice is to be cautious of combustible materials."

A police spokesman said: "Officers will be going back to the unit today to carry out further investigations."