A 51-YEAR-old woman had to be treated for smoke inhalation after the second fire in 24 hours in homes less than a mile apart.

In the first incident it is believed that arsonists targeted a property that was being built on Sidings Lane in Rainford causing severe damage.

The fire tore through the building causing damage to the ground floor with further damage to the first floor and attic.

Meanwhile, the woman was treated by paramedics after a fire broke out in the bedroom of a property on Lords Fold just before 9.30am on Tuesday.

It spread to the attic and the house was well alight before fire crews arrived.

A probe is under way into the cause but it is believed to be accidental.