FAMILIES had to flee as fire tore through homes in Lodge Park during the early hours of Monday.

Fifty firefighters from across the county were drafted in to tackle the blaze, which is being treated as arson.

It is believed a wheelie bin and three-piece suite outside a house in Evenlode Close was set alight.

The flames quickly engulfed the house before spreading to six adjoining homes.

Fire crews from Redditch, Bromsgrove, Droitwich, Stourport, Malvern, Worcester, Studley and Alcester fought to bring the blaze under control.

No-one was hurt but 20 people were evacuated. Just minutes later, the roof of the first house collapsed.

A teenage boy has been questioned and released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call CID on 584888.