A WOMAN has appeared in court accused of starting a fire in the flat where she was living.

Melissa Ann Sinden is alleged to have been responsible for the fire, which is said to have posed a potential risk to other tenants in neighbouring flats in the complex, above a shopping parade at Cheveley Park, Belmont, Durham.

Fire crews were called to tackle the blaze, in The Links, in the early hours of Monday, March 25.

Ms Sinden, who was brought from the premises by firefighters, was treated both at the scene and in hospital for smoke inhalation and superficial cuts.

She appeared at Durham Crown Court today (Thursday April 4), accused of arson, being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

A timetable was agreed for the proceedings, with the next hearing in eight weeks, but no date has been set should the case go to trial.

Ms Sinden’s barrister, Tony Davis, said there is, “likely to be a psychiatric input” required in proceedings.

The 41-year-old defendant was granted extended bail, to continue to live at a bail hostel address previously agreed by the court.

She must return to court for the plea hearing, set for Friday, May 31.