POLICE are hunting sick yobs who torched a block of flats while families slept inside.

As reported in late editions of yesterday's Evening Times, six people - including a toddler - had to flee for their lives from the flats in Maryhill.

Detectives have confirmed the fire was started deliberately and a hunt is underway to trace the suspects.

However, an insider told how the thugs set the front door ablaze trapping residents inside.

Fire chiefs today blasted the firebugs behind the blaze attack in Skirsa Place late on Wednesday night.

Group Manager John McGarvey said yobs who start fires "need to know their actions could cost lives".

He said: "Setting fires is incredibly dangerous, criminal behaviour.

"And those who are responsible just can’t predict how the fire will develop or how it will affect people.

"They don’t know where the smoke will travel, or how quickly it will threaten homes.

"They don’t know if the flames will spread or if dealing with a needless incident will prevent firefighters being sent to another emergency."

Fire crews raced to the scene in Skirsa Place shortly before midnight and a major rescue operation got underway.

A woman, teenage girl and little boy were among those trapped in their homes as firefighters battled the flames to reach them.

Crews led them to safety, along with a woman, teenage girl and teenage boy, who live in another flat.

Mr McGarvey, who is the SFRS head of prevention and protection for Glasgow, added: "Deliberate fire-setting is a serious crime that threatens lives.

"It’s something no-one should ever accept happening in their community.

"I would urge anyone with information on those involved to help prevent a tragedy by sharing it with the police."

Paramedics treated two residents at the scene and four others, who were suffering from smoke inhalation, were taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

Police Scotland confirmed the fire was being treated as deliberate and an investigation has been launched.

A spokeswoman said: "Police received a report of a fire at 11.55pm on Wednesday July 29, in Skirsa Place, Glasgow.

"The fire is being treated as wilful.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101."