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Daughter in appeal to find father's killers after firework attack - WATCH

The daughter of a man killed after a firework was set off in his house as he sat down to enjoy a takeaway meal has appealed for information to help catch his killers.

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Anthony Nicholls

Former Land Rover worker Anthony Nicholls, aged 56, did not regain consciousness after the blaze at his home in Birmingham on November 2.

Police say the fire started after an industrial-sized firework was brought inside by a group of men who burst into Mr Nicholls’ home at around 11.20pm as he and his partner enjoyed a Chinese takeaway.

WATCH: Family and police launch fresh appeal

His daughter Fiona Nicholls made the plea as independent charity Crimestoppers offered a reward of up to £10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

Detectives have analysed hundreds of hours of CCTV in an effort to identify the killers.

They say the community hold the key to aiding their investigation.

Mr Nicholls died in hospital following the blaze at his home in Birchtrees Crescent, Tile Cross, which broke out just after 11pm.

The firework was lit and caused a major fire.

His partner, a 50-year-old woman, escaped with fractures to her lower limbs after jumping from a first floor window.

Police say she has since been released from hospital, but suffered life changing injuries.

Mr Nicholls died as a result of the blaze, say West Midlands Police.

Fiona, aged 35, said: "It’s horrendous what’s happened to my dad. Words can’t describe how me and my family are feeling.

"My dad made no enemies. He was hard working, he was a funny man.

"I just want someone to come forward and give any information whatsoever, please."

The extent of the damage caused by the fire. Pictures issued by West Midlands Police

Det Insp Paul Joyce, leading the investigation, said the motive was still not clear.

"This was a cowardly attack on a couple in their own home. It’s my strong belief that the answers to this investigation lie within the local community.

"I would urge anybody to please come forward, to talk to us and tell us what they know."

Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or use their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

The reward of up to £10,000 only applies to information given to Crimestoppers.

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