The heartbroken family of an eight-year-old boy who died in a tragic house fire have spoken of their deep grief at the loss of their "wonderful little boy".

The parents and grandparents of Liam Blakelock, who died in the fire at the family home on the outskirts of Durham City, also paid tribute to the rescue services and medical staff who had saved the life of his three-year-old brother Shaun and mother Kathryn.

Liam died after fire swept through his home in Broome Road, Carrville on Tuesday evening last week.

The schoolboy was found by firefighters in the bathroom of the smoke-filled semi-detached house, but he was confirmed dead on arrival at the University Hospital of North Durham.

His 38-year-old mother and brother were both carried unconscious from the house and resuscitated on the lawn.

Shaun spent several days on a ventilator in intensive care at Newcastle General Hospital, with his mother and father Gordon keeping a bedside vigil, but is now making a steady recovery.

Yesterday, the devastated family, including Liam's grandparents, issued a statement which read: "Following the heartbreaking and tragic loss of our wonderful little boy Liam, the parents and grandparents would like to say, on behalf of both of our extended families, that the support we have received from friends, work colleagues and the local community has been heartfelt and have given us great comfort.

"Though our grief is deep we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the firefighters, police and paramedics, whose bravery and skill saved the lives of Kathryn and Shaun.

"We would also like to extend our thanks to the staff of Durham University Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department and the Newcastle General's Children's Intensive care unit for giving life back to both Kathryn and Shaun."

The tragedy shocked the entire community and friends and neighbours have rallied round, raising a four-figure sum to help the family rebuild their shattered lives.

Arrangements for Liam's funeral will not be made until all investigations into the fire, which is thought to have started in the kitchen are complete.