Woman dies and two men taken to hospital after house fire in Medomsley, near Consett

Firefighters battled in vain to rescue the woman but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two men were, however, able to escape from the blaze, which broke out on the first floor of the mid-terraced house in South Magdalene, Medomsley, near Consett, in County Durham at 2.12pm.

They were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene by paramedics and were taken to hospital by ambulance for further treatment.

Police seal off the road. Picture: Gavin Havery

Stuart Errington, Chief Fire Officer of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, took to social media to praise his staff for their attempts to save the woman who lost her life.

On Twitter, he said: “Tragic incident today for our crews. Fatal house fire near Consett. Heroic effort by crews but lady couldn't be saved. Thoughts with family.”

Two fire crews were despatched from Consett and High Handenhold and the first arrived at the scene at 2.17pm and reported that the building's first floor was well alight. 

Four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and two hose reels were used.

A spokesman for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "Tragically, a woman died in the house."

The fire did not spread into neighbouring properties, but left the house severely damaged with a blackened hole where the windows had been.

Emergency services remained at the scene into the evening and a full police and fire service investigation will be carried out in due course.

The road through the village on the outskirts of the former steel town was closed, with motorists trying to get home during the rush hour being diverted away from the scene.

Residents, however, were allowed through but were being advised of the tragedy that had unfolded.

A report will be prepared for the County Durham coroner who will carry out an inquest to determine the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death.