A family escaped with their lives after an arsonist started a fire outside their home.
The housebound man, his wife and five children only realised they were in danger when a quick-thinking baker raised the alarm.
Police today praised his prompt action, saying the fire, which started in a pile of rubbish below the family's Clacton flat, could have had fatal consequences.
The fire was started after someone heaped rubbish behind the Bakers Oven, Station Road, and set it alight.
The fire was at the foot of stairs leading up to the family's flat. The family - including the five children between nine and 18 years - were all asleep at the time.
Police have appealed for anyone who might have seen the incident, at 4.30am on Sunday, or who has since heard anyone talking about it to contact them at Clacton on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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