A MAN has been arrested in connection with a shooting and arson attack at a couple's home.

Kevin Wilson, 32, and his pregnant wife, Lorna, were left badly shaken and had to be moved to another address after three masked men laid siege to their home in Front Street, Sherburn Hill, near Durham.

Their bull terrier, Jack, needed surgery to remove a bullet from his face after getting caught in the cross-fire.

The incident happened at about 10pm last Thursday, when the gunmen reversed a Vauxhall Astra - believed to have been stolen from Newcastle Airport - through the wrought iron gates of Mr and Mrs Wilson's home.

Once in the driveway, they set fire to a white Audi convertible and fired several shots. The gang then fled in a second vehicle, leaving the Astra behind.

The couple, who were in the house watching television, escaped unhurt.

A Durham man in his early 40s was arrested in connection with the incident at the weekend, and has since been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Officers are trying to trace the movements of a stolen blue K-registration Vauxhall Cavalier, which was found at the entrance of Sherburn Village Farm after the attack.

Detective Sergeant Tony Dumighan appealed for anyone who saw it prior to 10pm last Thursday to call Durham police, on 0191-386 4222, or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.