An arsonist who set fire to his own flat in an attempt to kill himself left his upstairs neighbour terrified as his home filled with thick black smoke.
Terence Hepburn started fires in his living room and bedroom and tried to barricade the door of his property, which is in a block of four.
Neighbours in Cowgate, Newcastle, forced their way in and dragged him to safety despite him protesting "Leave me alone, it's warm".
Newcastle Crown Court heard it was in July last year that the blaze was started at Hepburn's home on Fouracres Road, Cowgate.
Prosecutor Kevin Wardlaw said: "Around 4.30pm on July 9 the occupier of the flat above the defendant became aware his flat was filling with thick black smoke.
"He realised the source was the flat of the defendant."
Neighbours managed to force entry and Hepburn, who was intoxicated, was dragged from his bedroom to outside.
An investigation revealed two seats of fire, with one in the living room made up of clothing, cushions and a plastic box and one in the bedroom comprising a quilt and mattress.
Hepburn, who has six previous convictions, pleaded guilty to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and was jailed for 28 months.
Andrew Walker, defending, said being on remand in prison had "straightened him up" and he is now on the correct medication and alcohol-free.
Mr Walker said: "In July last year, the defendant had sunk to a very low point after an adult life with emotional struggles over a period of time."
He added that Hepburn had issues with his ex and children which had a "huge impact" on him.
Mr Walker said: "He is a vulnerable adult. He felt very low and wanted to take his own life."
