POLICE and fire officers have launched an investigation into a bedroom blaze that caused “extensive” damage and is being treated as suspicious.Two people escaped a burning bedroom in Westwood Deals, Kedington, near Haverhill, yesterday afternoon.

POLICE and fire officers have launched an investigation into a bedroom blaze that caused “extensive” damage and is being treated as suspicious.

Two people escaped a burning bedroom in Westwood Deals, Kedington, near Haverhill, yesterday afternoon.

As neighbours spoke of their relief that no-one was seriously hurt, police and the fire service confirmed the blaze may have been started deliberately

Alistair Moseley, Assistant Divisional Officer with Suffolk Fire Service, said: “We have started investigating the cause of the fire in partnership with scenes of crime officers. When we arrived, we found a serious fire in the first floor bedroom.

“We attempted to contain the fire to the bedroom and make sure it did not spread.

“It was very hot in the room where the fire started and it did cause us to initially withdraw and fight the fire with external jets. The main damage was in the room of origin, but there was also smoke damage throughout the house and some light damage in neighbouring properties.”

A spokesman for Suffolk police confirmed the fire was being treated as suspicious and that an investigation has been launched. He added the blaze had caused “extensive” damage.

Residents in the village last night spoke of their relief that the damage was not worse.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said: “It was quite dramatic but also quite worrying. I am just relieved that everyone got out all right and I hope there was not too much damage done.”

Another neighbour said: “The people living in the house are nice neighbours and I don't have any problems with them. I believe the woman has lived in Kedington all her life. It is quite shocking to have something like this on your doorstep”.

Two crews from Haverhill and one from Clare were called to the fire that started at about 3.30pm. An ambulance was called for the two occupants who were suffering from shock and smoke inhalation.

Just an hour after the blaze was brought under control, police scenes of crime officers were at the scene and the property had been taped off at the front and rear of the premises.

Police have appealed for anyone who was in the area at the time of the fire and may have information to help the investigation to contact them on 01284 774100.