A man suspecting of setting ten cars alight in County Durham at the weekend has been bailed by police until early May.

No charges have been brought against the 42-year-old suspect who was arrested by police in Sunderland.

The man has been questioned on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life after cars were torched in a residential area of Crook at 12.20am on Sunday.

The Northern Echo: The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

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Durham Constabulary said the man has been bailed pending further inquiries by officers after being questioned.

The fires not only destroyed ten cars but have also damaged properties as well as the footpaths and roads on Milburn Street and Wilson Street.

Police have been in the area reassuring residents and Durham County Council is involved with the clear up operation.

Jeff Talbot, the council's clean and green manager, said: “We are aware of the reported fire damage to vehicles at Crook at the weekend and will do what we can to help affected residents once Durham Constabulary has completed its enquiries on site.

“Our clean and green staff will carry out work required and our highways team will be inspecting road surfaces and undertaking any repairs that are needed.

"Our colleagues in housing have not been contacted by anyone affected but anyone requiring housing advice or assistance can call them on 0808 196 8406.”

It is understood most insurance companies are waiving the excess charges on policies so residents are not left out of pocket.

North West Durham MP Richard Holden has encouraged residents having problems with their claims to contact his office.

He said: “The local neighbourhood team of officers and PCSOs have been doing sterling work, including coming in on rest days to help with the investigation.

“I have been following this closely and was in touch with the Chief Constable on Sunday.”

“Most insurers are waiving excesses on car and home insurance, if yours hasn’t please contact me directly via www.richardholden.org.uk/contact and I will reach out insurers directly.”

The Northern Echo: The investigation is ongoing The investigation is ongoing (Image: Sarah Caldecott)

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Mr Holden has urged anyone with information to pass it to the police as part of the ongoing investigation.

He said: “The information you have could be vital in ensuring a conviction.”

Anyone who can help should call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 8 of February 12, or contact police online via 101 Live Chat at www.durham.police.uk 

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.