police have confirmed they are treating as suspicious a fire in a flat in which an elderly woman was taken to hospital.
The pensioner, who has not been named, was admitted to Bishop Auckland Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation following the fire in Hopelands Court, Heighington.
Firefighters from Newton Aycliffe tackled the blaze, which damaged a hallway entrance, just before midnight on Friday,.
Insp Eddie Bond, of Darlington police, said: "We are treating the fire as suspicious as there was damage to the door and the floor inside. If anyone was in the area at the time of the fire and has any information can they come forward."
Anyone who can help police should call (01325) 467681.
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