DETECTIVES investigating a suspected racially motivated arson attack at a Cliviger Indian restaurant have re-appealed for a vital witness to come forward.

The incident happened at the Village Spice Indian Restaurant in Burnley Road, Cliviger, when fire-raisers broke and covered the walls with racist comments.

Detectives said they are desperate to speak to the man who alerted the owner, John Kaye, 55, to the early hours blaze.

Police said the man had been walking his dog when he spotted smoke coming from the building.

Detective Constable Charlie Haynes, of Burnley's Hate Crime Unit, said: "We still desperately need to speak to this man. He is not in any trouble but we just need to ask him a few questions. We would appeal to this man to get in touch with us."

Officers are now awaiting the outcome of a fire investigation report.

DC Haynes added: "A number of items have been preserved from the scene for forensic examination.

"The items will hopefully help us identify the nature of the accelerants used to start the fire at the restaurant."

Officers arrested a 36-year-old yesterday morning in connection with the incident.

The local man was questioned before being released pending further police inquiries.

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact DC Haynes on 01282 472282 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.