Dozens of homes were left without power for more than an hour after an arson attack in the cellar of an empty Black Country house.

The fire had started to spread threatening underground electricity cables.

Fire crews were called to Adelaide Street, Brierley Hill, at around 9.30pm yesterday after neighbours reported smoke billowing out beneath the door frame and windows.

Firefighters broke into the terraced house wearing breathing masks and found the blaze in a cellar.

Crews cut power to the street and the supply was isolated as they dealt with the blaze.

Residents living two doors down were asked to leave their home while the smoke was cleared but were able to return soon after. The house next door was disused.

Fire crews said they believe the fire had been started deliberately and police were also called to the scene.

Forensics officers removed a pane of glass from the back window to check for evidence of fingerprints and DNA.