AN investigation is under way into claims that moonlighting firefighters drove a group of party-goers to a blaze in which a pensioner died.

The firefighters, who could be dismissed, were said to have arrived only hours after the body of 87-year-old James Young was taken from his house in Douai Drive, Delves Lane, Consett, on February 4.

They had been driving a fire engine converted into a 'party wagon'.

Witnesses said loud music was blaring from the appliance, which had its lights flashing.

It had been hired for a private party from Mr Fireman Parties, a Wearside entertainments company.

A spokesman for the company said the 'party wagon' had accidentally turned down the wrong street. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has launched an investigation after allegations that the party fire engine was crewed by moonlighting firefighters from the brigade.

Chief fire officer Richard Bull said he wanted to know whether it was a coincidence the engine arrived at the scene of the fire.

He said: "I have started an internal disciplinary investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding this incident.

"Once that has been done, we will decide what to do next, and action could include dismissal."

He said in the past, he has received complaints from the public, who believe the party fire engine is a working vehicle.