AN estimated £120,000 of damage was caused when fire broke out in a barn used as an aircraft hangar.
Fire officers were called to the blaze at High Flatts Farm, South Pelaw, near Chester-le-Street, shortly before 3am yesterday.
By the time they arrived, four light aircraft and a sports car were burning, and it took a team of 20 firefighters about two hours to bring the blaze under control. Forensic scientists were yesterday trying to establish its cause.
Sub-officer Brian Smith, of High Handenhold fire station, said the barn's owner, Robert Ryle, was very upset.
"It was a bit of a sickener for him," he said. "He has had the planes for about 15 years."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article