A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and arson with intent to endanger life following a fire which left a woman with serious burns.

The 40-year-old man appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court this morning.

Police and fire crews were called to reports of a fire on Geneva Road in Darlington at 9.30pm on Monday.

A 30-year-old local woman, who suffered burns to her arms, feet and face in the blaze was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle where she remains in a poorly but stable condition.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.