INVESTIGATORS are treating a fire that caused millions of pounds worth of damage to a North-East country house as arson.

Woolsington Hall, near Newcastle, was destroyed after multiple fires were set in the historic property between 6pm and 8pm on Tuesday, December 29.

Police believe the fires in the the grade-II listed building were started deliberately.

Inspector Julie Rana, of Northumbria Police, said: “We are appealing for anyone who might have seen any suspicious people or vehicles in the areas around Woolsington Hall on that Tuesday evening.

“Whoever has done this has caused millions of pounds worth of damage and has completely destroyed the building.

“We are carrying out inquiries and would be interested in hearing from anyone who has any information that could help us.”

The alarm was raised by pilot coming into Newcastle Airport who saw the fire from the sky and called the emergency services.

The mansion was engulfed in flames with smoke pouring from the roof during the fire, but no-one was injured.

Seven fire engines were dispatched and more than 34 firefighters tackled the blaze.

Woolsington Hall dates from the late 17th century and was originally built as a shooting lodge with wings added in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The three-storey country house was used primarily as a private residence by the Bell family and was also used by the military in both world wars.

It is part of a 92-acre estate in Woolsington village and was put on English Heritage’s ‘at risk’ register in 2002.

Property firm Cameron Hall, which bought estate in 1994, was given permission by Newcastle City Council last year to transform the site into a five-star hotel, with executive homes, spa and golf course.

Work was due to start on the property in the New Year.

Inquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1174 29/12/15.