A MOPED was set alight outside flats in West Howe on Thursday leaving residents suffering from smoke inhalation.

The fire from the vehicle, set at around 10pm, spread to the block of flats in Cunningham Crescent causing severe damage to a door and guttering and blocking the fire exit.

Fortunately nobody was seriously injured in the incident, and no arrests have been made so far.

Police constable Lee Harrison said: “This was a reckless act which endangered the lives of those living in the block.

“The scooter itself was parked near the fire exit of the building, and the blaze prevented the occupants from escaping safely.

“The result of this fire could have been much worse.

“I would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed this incident take place, or may have details about those responsible.”

Contact Dorset Police with information on 101, quoting incident number 25:492, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.