AN Asian couple who survived on arson attack on their Frenchwood home has appealed for help to find the attackers.

Azan and Frieda Bodi say they were lucky to escape the blaze which engulfed their home in Frenchwood Avenue, pictured, in the early hours of Sunday, January 23.

Despite a massive police hunt to catch the arsonists, who are believed to have poured petrol through the couple's letterbox, no-one has been arrested in connection with the incident, prompting the Bodis to issue a public appeal for information.

Their plea, on the radio at the weekend, was in Urdu - in the hope that non-English speaking members of the Asian community may shed light on what police described as a "motiveless attack."

Semi-retired Mr Bodi said: "It is the most frightening things we have been through. I heard a noise downstairs and when I looked out all I could see was smoke.

"We tried to break the glass in the bedroom but it wouldn't give. We both injured out hands. Fortunately, our neighbours heard the commotion and called the emergency services. "They got to us just in time. I fear we would have died if they hadn't arrived so quickly.

"I can't understand why this has happened. I have no enemies."

The couple spent several days in hospital before going to stay with relatives in Preston. Mrs Bodi's hands are still in plaster. Their house is currently being refurbished.

Mr Bodi added: "The house was damaged but we are just grateful to be alive. We cannot thank the emergency services enough."

A clue to finding the arsonists could be a BMW seen in the area at the time. It had a distinctive registration number which, at a distance, appears to be "POWER" or "P8 WER."

Police are hoping the driver of the car might help with enquiries into the attack.

DI Charlie Lemmon, who is leading the investigation, said: "We hope someone may know who owns the number plate as it is one you don't forget easily. We are very keen to solve this case, as it appears motiveless."

Anyone with any information should call (01772) 209069.

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