This CCTV footage shows the moment an incompetent arsonist conspired to set himself on fire - instead of the recovery truck he was targeting.
As the man poured flammable liquid over the parked vehicle, his left arm caught fire, prompting him to run up the road flailing wildly as he tried to put it out.
The film shows the man then get into a waiting Nissan Micra after the botched attempt in Rochdale at about 5am on Wednesday,
The blaze spread to a nearby family home and caused damage to the front door and windows, but no-one was injured.
Detective Constable Russ Clarke said: "It is only by chance and the speedy response of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service which prevented any loss of life during this attack.
"This offender acted with no thought for his own safety or that of any of the local residents.
"It is important that anybody with information regarding this incident or who witnessed the events unfold comes forward to speak to us."
Anyone with information should contact Detective Constable Clarke or Detective Sergeant Martin Soutter on 0161 856 9961 or via Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
