Gardai have arrested three men over a suspected arson attack in Drogheda in Co. Louth which has left a pensioner fighting for her life in hospital.

The woman in her 70's was asleep in her house on Chord Road in Drogheda at approximately 1am this morning when it's believed a fire was deliberately started at the site.

Upon spotting the blaze, her neighbour, a man in his 30s, ran into the building and pulled the woman to safety.

The injured lady was transferred earlier today to St James Hospital, Dublin 8 her condition is described as serious.

The three men, two in their 30's and one in his 40's were arrested this evening and are being detained at Drogheda Garda station.