An arson attack in a quiet street has left one family scared to go to bed at night.

The Walker family had a burning object pushed through their letterbox in St George’s Avenue, Sheerness, early Monday morning.

Had it not been for two men driving past who spotted the flames, Anita Walker fears she, her husband James, 61, and son Eric, may not have made it out without serious injury.

But firefighters believe several drivers still drove past and ignored what was happening.

Mother-of-four Mrs Walker, 54, said the attack appeared to be completely random and police have not linked it to other arson attacks in the area.

Mrs Walker is grateful to the people who stopped to warn them.

She said: “To be honest I slept on the sofa the following night as I wouldn’t go to bed. I don’t really feel safe. At first I was a nervous wreck, but now I just feel angry that anyone would do such a stupid thing.”

The Walkers were woken shortly after 1am. Fortunately a smoke alarm inside then sounded and Eric, 24, managed to put out the flames on the doormat before firefighters arrived.

Forensic investigators spent much of Monday combing the area for clues, which resulted in a 32-year-old man being arrested that evening. He has not yet been charged.

He remains in custody on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

Police urge anyone with information to call 01795 419349 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.