RESIDENTS have been left "scared and shocked" after a flaming rag was posted through a letterbox.
People living in Bournemouth Road in Chandler's Ford said they are worried after the incident at 2am on October 30.
Police are investigating after an occupant managed to put out the flames before it spread.
George Murray, of nearby Keble Road, said: "We didn't see anything but we heard about it from our neighbour. It's really scary.
"The fact it has happened just down the road from us is worrying.
"We don't know if it was targeted or not, that's what makes this so worrying."
A resident who lives on Bournemouth Road, who did not want to be named, said she was woken by "a load of commotion outside".
"I could see police on the road really early in the morning but we had no idea what was going on," she said.
"It's really scary to think someone could do that to another person.
"What would've happened if no-one had noticed the fire? It's awful."
Another Bournemouth Road resident, a 73-year-old man, said: "It's just a relief that no-one was hurt.
"We are really shocked because this road quite quiet, it's predominantly elderly people and families.
"It makes you wonder what would possess someone to do this, it could've been fatal."
Police are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
A spokesperson said: “Were you passing through the area at the time? Did you witness what happened? Did you see anyone acting suspiciously?
“Do you have dash cam, ring doorbell, CCTV or mobile phone footage of the incident?
“Contact us on 101 or report online, quoting 44220440693.”
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