A second suspected arson attack at a newsagents’ shop has shocked residents in one of the most crime-free communities in the area.

Detectives fear the fire at Addingham Newsagents, Main Street, Addingham, could have had severe consequences, as the flat above the premises was occupied at the time of the blaze, at around 2am on Tuesday. A man living above the damaged shop, who escaped uninjured, is believed to have sounded the alarm after smoke detectors in his own home were activated.

It is feared the attacker used a rock to smash the front window of the store, then poured in an accelerant and lit the substance.

Police are carrying out forensic tests, and have they spoken to neighbours.

The fire follows a similar suspected arson attack in August 2006, when the shop was under different ownership.

Mark Preston and his father, Bill, joint owners of the business, refurbished the fire-damaged shop and opened it last May.

Mr Preston, 43, is battling on to run his business, making deliveries to Addingham and the surrounding communities. He says the discovery that the fire may have been arson has strengthened his resolve to carry on and refurbish the business.

But he was angered by the prospect that the fire was started deliberately.

“I think that it’s an absolutely monstrous act,” said Mr Preston. “It’s one thing doing it to a lock-up on an isolated industrial estate, that’s bad enough, but to do it knowing there’s a human being upstairs.”

Detective Inspector John Mountain, of Airedale and North Bradford CID, said: “This was a very serious offence which could have had severe consequences.

“We would appeal to members of the community in Addingham, which is generally a very safe area, to contact us if they can help us find the person responsible.”

Anyone who has information should contact Airedale and North Bradford CID on 0845 60 60 606 or CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.