Suspected arson attack at restaurant was like a 'Hallowe'en scene'

A fire at a restaurant in north-east London was like a 'Halloween scene', a local businessman has said, after CCTV footage appeared to show a man running out of the building with his clothing on fire.

Three people are in a life-threatening condition after the suspected arson attack at Indian Aroma in Woodford Avenue, Gants Hill, Ilford, at about 9pm on Friday.

CCTV footage seen by the PA news agency appears to show a group of people with their faces covered walk into the restaurant before pouring liquid on to the floor.

Seconds later, the inside of the restaurant is engulfed in flames.

Part of the ground floor was damaged by fire, and crews rescued five people from the restaurant. Nine others got out beforehand, London Fire Brigade said.