POLICE are on scene investigating a suspected arson attack at a home last night.

Two people were rescued from the house fire after it broke out in their hallway.

Fire crews from Southend and Leigh rushed to Salisbury Avenue, Westcliff at about 12.50am last night after a neighbour smelled smoke and called 999.

On arrival firefighters reported that the fire was confined to the downstairs hallway and two people were trapped in an upstairs bedroom.

Firefighters used ladders to reach the occupants and rescue them through the bedroom window.

Meanwhile two more crews began fighting the fire in the hallway, quickly brought it under control and extinguished it by 1.40am

The casualties were left in the care of the ambulance service.

This morning, a police cordon was put in place and forensic officers were on scene examining the damage in white suits.

The hallway has been left fire damaged and the house is smoke damaged throughout.

An investigation between the fire service and the police will be carried out to determine the cause of the fire.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service want every home in Essex to have working smoke alarms. You can get them fitted for FREE by booking a home safety visit. Call us on: 0300 303 0088 or book online: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book