Family Appeal Over Fatal Blaze

The family of a woman and her young granddaughter, who died in a suspected arson attack in Greater Manchester, have appealed for information.

Hameeda Begum, 71, and four-year-old Alana Mian, died a year ago in a blaze in Little Holme Walk, in Great Lever, Bolton.

Mrs Begum’s husband Mumtaz Chishty, 72, today spoke for the first time on the anniversary of the murders.

He said that those who had information but had not come forward to help the investigation were "cruel".

The retired bus driver, who runs his own jewellery store, also said: "I didn't do anything wrong. I didn't kill their family so why did they kill mine?"

The pair died after a fire had started in a wheelie bin and spread to their home. The bin had been set on fire and pushed up against the house.

Det Ch Insp Andy Peach, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "It is sad to think that a year has gone by and the family devastated by this horrendous ordeal are still waiting for justice.

"This investigation is still very much ongoing and I strongly believe there are people in the community that have information but, for whatever reason, have still not to spoken.

"I urge you to come forward, no matter how insignificant you think the information maybe, please let us decide."

One of the injured firefighters, who suffered 50% burns, last month pleaded for witnesses to come forward.

Steven Morris – who spent nine months in hospital and had skin grafts to his back, buttocks and legs - said he wouldn't think twice about doing the same thing again, but is desperate for the people who started the blaze to be caught.

He added: "If you saw anyone running from the building or milling about outside prior to incident, I'm sure the police would love to hear from you."

A 14-year-old boy and a 22-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder are on bail until Thursday pending further inquiries.

(JM/BMcC)