POLICE are appealing for information following a report of an arson attack which police are treating as attempted murder.

Speaking about the incident Detective Chief Inspector Catherine Magee said: “At approximately 9.45 pmwe received a report of a house being on fire in the Rinvarna Court area and there were persons trapped.

“Two adults and two children were in the property at the time. Two of which had to be rescued with the help of passers-by and the Northern Ireland Fire Service. All four were taken to hospital, two of whom were treated for smoke inhalation.

“Substantial damage was caused to a door and the front of the property.

“This is a very serious incident and we are extremely lucky we are not investigating the death of a young family.

“We are at the early stages of this investigation and I would appeal to anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area or who has any information to contact Detectives in Coleraine on the non emergency number 101.

“Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”