A fire which tore through terraced homes in Newton Aycliffe leaving two women in hospital is being treated as arson.
Emergency services were called to a house in Greenlee Garth just after 1am on Wednesday, October 14.
The two women inside managed to escape with minor injuries and were taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital, where they remain.
(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Neighbouring houses were also damaged and had to be evacuated, although the majority of residents have since been able to return home.
A Durham Police spokesperson said: "An investigation was immediately launched and officers remain at the scene today as enquiries continue."
Pictures show the homes badly damaged with windows charred and the rooves caved in.
(Image: PAUL WILLIS)
A North East Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We were called to a fire in Newton Aycliffe at 1.25am on Wednesday 14th October 2026.
(Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
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"We dispatched one clinical team leader, one crew from our hazardous area response team and one ambulance crew who took two patients to Darlington Memorial Hospital."
Anyone with information is asked to call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident reference number 16 of October 14, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The Northern Echo has contacted the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service for more information.