A MAN is facing an “inevitable” jail sentence for setting fire to a house and putting lives at risk.

Michael Wallace admitted a charge of reckless arson when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court via a live video-link from Durham Prison.

The 34-year-old will learn his fate next month after reports are prepared by a psychiatrist and probation officer.

He was remanded in custody by Judge Sean Morris until he is dealt with on May 31.

The judge told him: “You have done the right thing in pleading guilty. I am ordering a pre-sentence report and a psychiatric report. It is in your best interests to co-operate with that.

“You must understand a custodial sentence is inevitable.”

Wallace, of Coronation Street, Carlin How, east Cleveland, admitted arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered at a house in Coronation Street on March 6.

His barrister, Duncan McReddie, said: “Given the nature of the offence, both a pre-sentence report and a court-ordered psychiatric report will be needed.

“Mr Wallace is aware of what that entails, and he will comply.”