FAMILIES had to be evacuated from their homes after a 19-year-old man began a blaze inside a car next to a house, a court heard.

The fire spread to a carport and then to property in Meadow Road, Droitwich Spa.

Firebug Lee Williamson, of no fixed address, had made threats on the night of October 15 after an argument, prosecutor Samantha Powis told Worcester Crown Court on Monday.

Williamson admitted arson while being reckless whether life was endangered.

He was remanded in custody while pre-sentence and psychiatric reports are prepared.

Neil Greensall, aged 26, of Little Piece, Warndon Villages, Worcester, denied a similar charge.

He was given a not guilty verdict after the prosecution offered no evidence against him.

Miss Powis said although the case fell short of a joint enterprise, Williamson had been handed a box of matches by his co-accused.

Mr Greensall, of previous good character, told police he thought Williamson wanted to illuminate the inside of the car - and had no idea he was about to set it alight.

Williamson - who faces a long term of custody - will be sentenced on a date to be fixed.