AN arsonist could be jailed for setting fire to a house in his street and putting the lives of other people at risk.

Daniel Barrowcliffe started the blaze in the upstairs of the property in Dalton Crescent, Shildon, County Durham.

He appeared in court today and admitted arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.

The case was adjourned and the 26-year-old will return to Teesside Crown Court later this month to be sentenced.

Judge George Moorhouse said reports from a psychiatrist and probation officer were needed before sentencing.

The judge told him: "The mere fact these reports are being made available must not give you any false hopes."

Barrowcliffe was given bail on the conditions he lives in Grainger Street, Darlington, and stays out of the Shildon area.

His barrister, Scott Smith, said Barrowcliffe was one of two men who started fires in the house on November 15.

A decision on whether the other suspect is charged is still to be made, the court was told.