Man set on fire in 'horrific' doorstep attack

An attempted murder investigation is underway in Lancashire after a man was deliberately set on fire.

Police believe the victim has doused in "some form of accelerant" when he opened the front door of his home in Skelmersdale.

The 48 year old suffered serious burns and is in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

The detective leading the investigation said they believe this "horrific" attack was targeted.

Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Stables said "while I don’t believe there is any threat to the wider community at this time, I recognise this will have caused concern and we do have a number of extra patrols in the area".

Police are appealing for information.

“Someone out there knows who has done this and I would urge them to come forward and speak to us. Has a loved one come home acting suspiciously, smelling of smoke or petrol or with unexplained injuries?

"If anyone has any information, no matter how insignificant you may feel it is, I would ask that you contact us. We need to find the people responsible for this dreadful crime.”