POLICE are treating a fire at a cash and carry warehouse as arson.

The fire broke out at Batley's warehouse, on the Drum Industrial Estate, at Chester-le-Street, County Durham, between midnight and 1am on Good Friday.

The fire started in rubbish stored in a caged compound attached to the back of the premises and several fire engines were needed to put the flames out.

Although the main building remained intact, the caged compound was extensively damaged and the cost is still being calculated.

Police say the fire is thought to have been started deliberately and has been classed as arson.

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact Detective Constable Sunil Weerasinghe on 0845 60 60 365 ext 2357 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111