A DISTRAUGHT couple returned from a night away to find their picturesque home had burned to the ground.

Donna Kelly, 38, and Peter Lloyd were in a state of shock at the devastation caused by the blaze.

The isolated single-storey three-bedroom farmhouse in Moor Lane, Haslingden, was destroyed by a fire which broke out at 12.30am on Saturday.

The blaze is being treated as suspicious after traces of flammable liquid were found at the scene by fire investigation dog Bernie, who was drafted in to help.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service assistant divisional officer Neville Earnshaw said: "The flammable liquids were used to escalate the development of the fire.

"Bernie found traces at various points and the police are now dealing with it."

Detective Inspector Ron Griffiths of Burnley CID added: "The fire is being treated as a serious incident.

"We are awaiting the results of a fire investigation report and our own forensic science report before making any further judgement."

The flames spread quickly because of the strong winds and two fire engines from Rawtenstall, one from Haslingden, and one from Accrington went to the scene.

Firefighters battled until 3.30am to put out the blaze.

The firefighters used a portable pump to transport water from a pond 50 yards away on the moor and they ferried water from a hydrant one mile away.

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