A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of arson following a house fire.

A stretch of Keighley Road in Ovenden, Halifax was closed, between Nursery Lane and Tesco Express, for just over an hour from 8pm last night.

Police have now confirmed this was because they received a report of a concern for safety involving a fire at an address in the nearby Lawler Close.

A 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson and was taken into custody.

The Telegraph & Argus has approached West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service for a comment.

Full West Yorkshire Police statement

A spokesperson for the force said: "At 7.32pm yesterday (Friday, February 2), police received a report of a concern for safety involving a fire at an address in Lawler Close, Ovenden.   

"Officers and the fire service attended the location and local road closures were put in place to allow the incident to be dealt with safely.  

"Following enquiries at the scene, a 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson and taken into custody.   

"Enquiries are continuing into the incident and anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area at around the time stated is asked to contact Calderdale District CID on 101, or by using the livechat facility on the West Yorkshire Police website.  

"The crime reference is 13240062689.

"Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online."