A woman has died after a house fire in County Durham, as police and fire crews investigate the cause of the fire. 

Emergency services were called to Westdale View in Tow Law at around 2.20pm on Monday (January 15) - following reports of smoke coming from a house on the road. 

Three fire crews from Crook, Bishop Auckland and Consett were sent to the scene, alongside emergency services colleagues from police and ambulance.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and proceeded to conduct a search and extinguish the fire using hose reels.

The fire service has since confirmed a pensioner was pronounced dead at the scene. 

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said the property has been made safe and a joint investigation with Durham Police is underway to determine the cause of the fire. 

A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: "As a fire service, this is never the outcome we hope for.

"First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of those affected by this tragic incident.

"We ask that people give her family and loved ones the privacy they need as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.

"As a service, we aim to protect and educate the members of our communities about the dangers of fire."

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The spokesperson added: "At a time like this we are reminded of the dangers of fire and urge all residents to take up our offer of a free home fire safety visit where we can provide fire safety advice for your home and fit smoke alarms.

"If you already have a smoke alarm, remember to test it once a week.

"Fire crews from Crook Fire Station will be working in the neighbourhood today to offer reassurance to neighbours and provide home fire safety advice."