Police are appealing for witnesses after an Ipswich house fire resulted in two 13-year-old boys being arrested on suspicion of deliberately starting the blaze.

The youths were taken into custody by officers after the blaze at Parade Road.

The teenagers were questioned at Martlesham police investigation centre at Suffolk Constabulary’s headquarters, before being released on bail, pending further enquiries.

The teenagers must answer their bails on August 8.

Firefighters were called to the property just before 1pm last Wednesday after reports of smoke coming from the loft.

When they arrived they were told people may be in the building and a third fire crew was sent to the scene.

The firefighters forced entry to the premises and thermal imaging cameras were used to check the house for anyone inside.

Police were called after it was discovered windows had been smashed and a fire had been started in the kitchen area.

The house and nearby properties were ventilated by the firefighters after the blaze was extinguished

Lisa Miller, a spokeswoman for Suffolk Constabulary, said the fire was described as “severe” and the house involved also sustained smoke damage.

Mrs Miller added: “Two 13-year-old males have been arrested on suspicion of arson. They are now on police bail.”

Anyone who has information which could help the inquiry should telephone Detective Constable Matt Williamson at Ipswich CID on 101 quoting crime reference IE/14/1742. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555111.