Two women have been arrested in connection with the death of a Sunderland man who died when a firework was pushed through his letterbox.

The women, aged 27 and 57, were arrested on suspicion of supplying fireworks to people under 18 years on the city's Witherwack Estate.

Arthur Lonsdale, 52, died in hospital on 30 October, two days after the fire at his home in Westerham Close.

The suspects have both been bailed pending further inquiries.

Det Supt Steve Wade, of Northumbria Police, said: "These arrests have been made as a direct result of appeals to members of the public.

"We want to hear from anyone who has any information on the sale of fireworks no matter how small or insignificant it may seem."

A mobile police station, which is open 24 hours a day, has been set up outside Mr Lonsdale's house.