A FIRE that damaged six houses was started accidentally, investigators have concluded.
The blaze affected six houses in Sherburn Village, near Durham City, on Monday, March 9 – apparently having started in a roof space.
Two workmen in their 20s were arrested on suspicion of arson and had been released on bail until mid-May pending further enquiries.
However, no further action will now be taken against either of them and police have cancelled their bail.
The fire started in a property adjoining Clifton House, where work was being carried out.
No-one was hurt, but six properties were damaged by smoke and water.
The County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service has now concluded the cause was accidental, its report stating the fire was “due to the use of gas burning equipment during the application of flat roof felt in high winds”.
Residents left homeless by the fire were put up in a nearby hotel and the community rallied round in support, with the Sherburn Village Jolly Boys staging a fundraising event at the workingmen’s club last Thursday (March 26).
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article