A man who set himself alight during an arson attack on a Rochdale takeaway has been caged for two-and-a-half years.

Rana Kamran, 28, from Rochdale broke into Hafiz takeaway on Spotland Road before pouring petrol around and setting it alight on May 16 last year.

After becoming engulfed in flames he fled the area, dumping his coat in an alleyway behind the takeaway.

Attending fire crews tackled the blaze before rescuing an elderly woman from an adjoining flat, who had to be treated for smoke inhalation.

Investigating police soon discovered Kamran's singed jacket and forensic tests linked later it to him.

Remnants of a petrol canister were also recovered from the smouldering wreck.

Following the fire, Kamran took himself to hospital and told staff he had been cooking in his kitchen.

He told them he spilt a pan of oil on his hand and had slipped and fallen in the oil.

Kamran was found guilty of arson following a trial at Minshull Street Crown Court and was sentenced today (July 11).

Detective constable Michael Berger, said: “While we cannot speculate on Kamran’s motive for starting the fire, what is clear is that this was a deliberate act committed with the intention of causing as much damage as possible.

“Unfortunately for Kamran, his ineptitude led to him suffering serious injuries and proves that if you play with fire you will get burned.

“He also left behind vital evidence which was key to him getting convicted.”