A MAN was taken to hospital following an arson attack on a Chard flat.

Around 3.40pm on Saturday, October 15, three engines from Chard, Ilminster and Axminster were called to East Street after reports of a fire where a man was still inside the property. 

Upon arrival crews confirmed smoke and flames were issuing. 

One man was rescued from an upstairs flat.

A spokesman from South Western Ambulance said: "We were called by the fire service at 3.43pm on Saturday.

"He was taken to Musgrove Park Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation."

The fire was under control at 3.55pm. Crews used four breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet, one covering jet, one safety jet together with thermal image camera and small tools to put out the fire. 

Although the cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate, the police are not investigating and do not believe it is suspicious.

A spokesman from Avon and Somerset Police said: "We were called to reports of a property fire in East Street in Chard on Saturday afternoon at about 3.45pm.

"The road was closed and re-opened shortly after 5pm.

"The fire is not being treated as suspicious."