A FIRE investigation is underway after a car was burned out in a suspected arson attack.

Police were called in the early hours of Sunday morning to Mary Terrace near Bishop Auckland following reports of a car on fire.

A spokesperson for Durham police said: “Officers attended along with our colleagues from County Durham and Darlington Fire and rescue service.

“It is believed the suspect used petrol to set the Mercedes alight.”

A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson and has since been released under investigation.