A car fire that destroyed a family home, forcing three adults and three children to flee in the middle of the night, was started deliberately.

Flames tore through the house in Northfield Park in Annan, Dumfries and Galloway, after a BMW in the driveway was set alight in the early hours of Monday.

Police said there could have been "tragic consequences" if the family had not been able to escape.

The children inside were aged ten, four and nine months old.

Those inside the house were woken by a loud bang at around 12.15am and found the car, which was parked in the driveway, on fire.

They were able to escape without injury but by the time the fire service arrived the flames had spread to the house.

Detectives say they are viewing CCTV in a bid to trace whoever is responsible for the "horrendous crime".

Detective inspector Dean Little said: "It is quite clear that the occupants of this house had a very lucky escape in this fire, which has spread from the car to the house and destroyed both as a result.

"We are now conducting enquiries into what is a serious case of wilful fire-raising, which could have had tragic consequences had the family not been able to escape the house.

"We are carrying out door-to-door enquiries in the area and will be reviewing CCTV which we have been able to retrieve from the community."

He appealed for anyone who may have been nearby at the time to come forward.

Mr Little said: "Did you see any persons or any unfamiliar vehicles in the area around this time? If you did I would urge you to contact us.

"I would also ask anyone who may have a private CCTV system to get in touch in order we might review any footage which may assist in this enquiry.

"Anyone who has any information which might help us trace those responsible for this horrendous crime is asked to call us at Annan on the 101 number, or if they want to remain anonymous then through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."