A pensioner has died following a house fire in County Durham last week after brave members of the public tried to save her. 

The fire occurred in South Pelaw, Chester-le-Street on Friday, November 1 at around 7:50am. 

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service deployed three fire engines, with the first unit arriving within six minutes. 

When firefighters arrived, they encountered members of the public who had attempted to rescue the occupant from the burning home. 

Firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus entered the property, conducting a search and extinguishing the fire with hose reels.

Firefighters immediately began performing CPR until ambulance crews arrived and took the victim to hospital, where tragically the woman was later pronounced dead. 

A joint investigation between the fire department and Durham Constabulary is currently underway to determine the cause of the fire, although it is not being treated as suspicious. 

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Group Manager Justin Parry of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said: “I want to take a moment to praise the members of the public who selflessly attempted to save a life.

“Sadly, it was not the outcome anyone hoped for.

“The thoughts of everyone at CDDFRS are with the woman’s family and loved ones.

“We ask that people give her family the privacy they need as they 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 our communities about these dangers.

“Therefore, we once again urge every household, whether in a house, flat, or caravan to check their smoke alarms weekly.

“If you don’t have a smoke alarm, we can fit one 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.

“We ask that you reach out to your neighbours, particularly those who are older or living alone and offer to help them test their smoke alarms or arrange a free Home Fire Safety Visit from their local fire crew.

“We all have a duty to look out for one another, so please do your part in keeping our communities safe.”

Fire crews from High Handenhold Fire Station were in the area over the weekend to offer reassurance to neighbours and provide home fire safety advice.