A council are investigating a fly tip which was ‘set on fire’ on a County Durham road early this morning.

Durham County Council have confirmed the fire service was called to a large fire at Scorers Lane in Great Lumley, in the early hours of Monday morning (April 15).

The council have said the remains of a fly tip were “set alight” and evidence found at the scene is currently being investigated.

They have appealed to anyone with information to help with their enquiries.

A DCC spokesperson said: “Our partners at County Durham and Darlington Fire & Rescue Service were called to a large fire at Scorers Lane, Great Lumley in the early hours of this morning.

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“This puts extra pressure on their services diverting them from other jobs which can put lives in danger!

“This is the remains of a fly tip which was set alight, evidence has been found in the fly tip which will be investigated however if you have any information on this, please contact us on 03000 260 000 or send us a direct message.

“If you've recently paid someone to take away your rubbish and recognise the remains, please make contact with us.”