A MAN found dead in a County Durham house has been identified as 36-year-old George William Rae.

Police were last night scaling down the investigation but will keep an open mind on the death until toxicology tests have been completed. A post mortem examination failed to establish a cause of death.

Mr Rae, who had been staying overnight with friends, in Honister Place, Newton Aycliffe, was discovered at about 8.30am yesterday. He was certified dead at the scene by a local doctor.