Two women in hospital after suspected arson attack

Two people have been taken to hospital after a fire at a house which police are investigating as arson.

The women escaped with minor injuries from an address on Greenlee Garth in Newton Aycliffe but remain at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Durham Police said no-one else was injured but neighbouring houses were damaged.

A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) said: "On arrival, crews were faced with a well-developed fire involving the property and roof space, which had spread into neighbouring homes."

Emergency services were called to the fire at 01:10 BST, the fire service left at 05:41 but police officers remained at the scene.

Residents were evacuated in the early hours of the morning, but most have since been able to return to their homes, the force said.

The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing, with police appealing for further information from the public.

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