THE heartbroken family of an eight-year-old boy who died in a house fire have spoken of their grief at the loss of their "wonderful little boy".

The parents and grandparents of Liam Blakelock, who died in the fire at the family home on the outskirts of Durham, also paid tribute to the rescue services and medical staff who had saved his three-year-old brother, Shaun, and mother, Kathryn.

Liam died after fire swept through his home in Broome Road, Carrville, on Tuesday night last week.

Liam was found by firefighters in the bathroom of the smoke-filled semi-detached house, and was confirmed dead on arrival at the University Hospital of North Durham, in the city.

His 38-year-old mother and brother were carried unconscious from the house and resuscitated on the lawn.

Shaun spent several days on a ventilator in intensive care at Newcastle General Hospital, with his mother and father, Gordon, keeping a vigil, and is now making a steady recovery.

Yesterday, the family, including Liam's grandparents, issued a statement, which read: "Following the heartbreaking and tragic loss of our wonderful little boy Liam, the parents and grandparents would like to say, on behalf of both of our extended families, that the support we have received from friends, work colleagues and the local community has been heartfelt and has given us great comfort.

"Though our grief is deep, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the firefighters, police and paramedics whose bravery and skill saved the lives of Kathryn and Shaun.

"We would also like to extend our thanks to the staff of Durham University Hospital's accident and emergency department and the Newcastle General's children's intensive care unit for giving life back to both Kathryn and Shaun."

The tragedy shocked the community, and friends and neighbours have rallied round, raising a four-figure sum to help the family.

Arrangements for Liam's funeral will not be made until all investigations into the fire, which is thought to have started in the kitchen, are complete.