Mini 'tornado' ripped through Bishop Auckland causing damage

A Met Office yellow weather warning was in place for thunderstorms as high winds, heavy rain and thunder was hitting the region. 

Just after the 'tornado' hit pulling fences down, roofs off and smashing windows as it passed through (Image: PAUL HENRY) The homeowner, Paul Henry, who had been out shopping with his partner at the time, said it was neighbours who raised the alarm.

He said: "Me and my partner were shopping at the time and our lovely neighbours called my partner to let us know what had happened. They were right in the middle of it getting into their hot tub when it happened."

The aftermath of the devastating 'tornado' that has tore gardens apart (Image: PAUL HENRY) He added: "Fences are down. Roof is leaking. Other neighbours' windows are smashed. Shed roofs are missing. House roofs are missing capping and tiles. It was a total mess.

"Collectively, it's caused thousands of damage throughout the village and you wouldn't believe something like this would happen in a small forgotten old coal mining village in County Durham.

"The damage caused it has caused is awful but at least no one was hurt or injured."

The aftermath of the devastating 'tornado' that has tore gardens apart (Image: PAUL HENRY) Footage from the scene shows debris scattered across gardens and rooftops, fences being tore down and power lines cut. 

Within a matter of seconds the gardens become unrecognisable after the 'tornado' hit. 

The roof blew off this garden shed during the storm (Image: PAUL HENRY)

Roof tiles damaged after the storm that has collectively cost the village thousands of pounds in damage (Image: PAUL HENRY) The area also experienced a subsequent five hour power cut after the storm. 

The extreme winds brought down brickwork and left entire gardens and homes in tatters.

Locals will now be facing hefty repair bills and a big clean-up operation.