A man has tragically died following a caravan fire in a County Durham holiday park as an investigation begins.

The man, who was in his 60s, died in the fire at Castledene Holiday Park near Castle Eden which broke out just before 8am on Tuesday (February 27).

By the time crews arrived at the scene, the fire was "fully developed". They then entered the home to conduct a search and extinguish the flames.

Sadly, a man was found and pronounced dead at the scene.

Group Manager Michael Pearson of CDDFRS said: “The thoughts of everyone at CDDFRS are with the family and friends of those affected by this tragic incident.

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

He added: “At tragic times like this, we are reminded of the dangers of fire and the reality that fire kills.

“As a service we aim to protect and educate the members of our communities about the dangers of fire and we therefore, once again, issue our plea to every household – whether they be in a house, a flat or a caravan – to make sure you are checking your smoke alarms weekly.

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“If you don’t have a smoke alarm – we can fit them for you as part of our free home fire safety visits.

“Nothing matters more to us than the safety of those who live in our communities, and we ask that you reach out to your neighbours – particularly those who are older and living alone and offer to help them test their smoke alarms or help arrange a home visit from their local fire crews.

“We all have a duty to look after one another so please do play your part in keeping communities safe.”