A YOUNG woman accused of alternative arson charges relating to a hostel blaze is also said to be the subject of inquiries into a further flat fire, a court heard.

Samantha Louise Alderson and two other residents were rescued from a blazing first floor flat at a YMCA-run hostel, in Middleton Street, Darlington, in the early hours of January 31.

All three escaped serious injury, but Miss Alderson was taken to hospital for treatment for the effects of breathing in smoke.

She was later arrested on suspicion of arson on her release from hospital.

The 18-year-old hostel resident was subsequently charged with arson with intent to endanger life and the alternative of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

She appeared at Durham Crown Court on Friday (March 20), but no charges were put, as the investigation into the fire was said to have so far proved, “inconclusive”.

Stephen Duffield, prosecuting, said Miss Alderson was also questioned about a previous fire, but at that time she was told no further action would be taken.

He said the situation relating to both fires is now the subject of a review, prior to the plea hearing, at the court, next month.

A provisional trial date has been set for the case, should it be needed, starting on July 29.

Judge Simon Hickey adjourned the hearing and remanded the defendant back to custody, to be brought back for the plea hearing, on April 27.