Anthony Simpson

A VULNERABLE couple say they fear for their safety after burning paper was deliberately put through their door.

Anthony and Tina Simpson, who both suffer from disabilities and health problems, were watching television at their home in Cranham Drive, Warndon, Worcester, when a neighbour found flames coming from their letterbox.

The lit paper was safely snuffed out and no one was hurt, but police are treating the incident, which happened at about 9.45pm on Monday, as attempted arson. 

Mr Simpson said he couldn’t understand why anyone would do such a thing.

“We didn’t know about it until our next-door neighbour found it burning and came round,” said the 42-year-old. “Our neighbours have gone mad about it. We’re worried just in case it happens again.”

Mrs Simpson, aged 44, said they had been left shaken by the attack.

She said: “We don’t feel safe here now. I’m worried about my cat because we haven’t seen her since. The area’s gone down. We don’t go out much now. I still feel a bit nervous.”

Sgt Jill Fowler, of West Mercia Police, said she was “very concerned” about why someone would target the couple in this way.

She said: “The fire could have been far worse if not for the quick actions of a neighbour and we need to find the person responsible for trying to start the fire. I would like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area on Monday evening and may have seen anything suspicious or anyone who may have information about who was behind the arson attempt.”

Information can be given to Sgt Fowler by calling the non-emergency police number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting incident number 893-S-250612.