An arson investigation has been launched after a flammable liquid was poured through the letterbox of a house as a family slept inside.

The fire brigade were called to a family home in Globe Road, Bethnal Green in the early hours of Thursday morning. The four people inside escaped unharmed.

Police have now launched a criminal investigation after and examination of the scene revealed that a flammable liquid was poured through the letterbox.

Anybody with information is asked to contact DS Phil Humphries on 0207 275 4546 or call crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111