A toddler who survived a house fire which killed her mother, aunt and uncle has returned to her home town for Christmas.

Two-year-old Megan Yates suffered horrific burns in the blaze earlier this year.

She had been receiving treatment at Newcastle General Hospital, where she was receiving specialist care, but she has been transferred to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, so she can be nearer to her family.

Until now, they had relied on the kindness and generosity of friends, who ferried family members on the 85-mile round-trip to Newcastle on a daily basis.

Grandmother Rose Yates, 45, said: "We are grateful she's coming nearer her home and her family. It is easier for all of us.

"She won't be home for Christmas but we'll go up to see her on Christmas Day and that will cheer her up no end."

Rose's daughter, Kerry, of Thorntree, Middlesbrough, will take care of Megan, her niece, when she eventually returns home.

The family say she has been recovering well, despite a diagnosis of brain damage. They can now take her out in a pram.

The toddler, whose mother, Gail, died in the terraced house blaze in August, suffered 31 per cent burns to her head, face, legs and arms.

Rose said: "Megan is doing great now. She's improving, having speech therapy.

"She's a proper little fighter."

Maddie Hooton, of James Cook Hospital, said: "Megan is settled and happy to be back with her family and friends in Middlesbrough and is doing fine."

Kerry's sisters, Gail, 27, Joanne, 22, and brother, Lee, 18, died in the fire at Rose's house on Pelham Street, Middlesbrough, in August. A police spokesman said inquiries into the blaze had been completed and files were being prepared to pass on to the Teesside coroner.