POLICE are treating a fire at a recycling plant in Rathfriland as suspicious.

A couple and their young child cheated injury in the blaze.

Their home has been destroyed along with a car outside.

A fighting fund has been set up as the family have lost everything just three days before Christmas.

The PSNI say it received a report of the fire at 1.51 am this morningn Tuesday, 22 December.

A house in nearby Kiltariff Drive also caught fire and was completely destroyed by the blaze.

A second house was also damaged.

A spokesperson said: “Police are now working to establish the exact circumstances of the fire.

“They would like to hear from anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the local area during the early hours of this morning.

“They would also like to hear from anyone who has information that may assist their investigation.

“They can be contacted on 101, quoting ref: 65 221215.

“NIFRS continue to deal with the fire this morning. Residents in Kiltarriff Drive are advised to stay indoors this morning with doors and windows closed.”