A man has been charged after several cars were set on fire in Crook at last weekend.

Paul Reay was arrested following the incident in Wilson and Milburn Street, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The 39-year-old, of Sunderland, was tonight charged with ten counts of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered and remanded into custody.

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

Read more: Cars explode after suspected arson leaving County Durham street 'like a warzone' 

Mr Reay is expected to appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court tomorrow morning.

A 42-year-old man who was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and assault remains on police bail while enquiries continue.

Detective Sergeant Claire Callaghan, of South Durham CID, said: “The innocent residents have understandably been left shaken by this horrific incident and officers across all departments have worked tirelessly on the investigation.

“I want to thank the residents for their patience whilst we carried out our enquiries.”

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

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