A SUBSTANTIAL reward has been posted by a family whose home was burgled and badly damaged by fire.

The reward is for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the burglary and suspected arson, plus the recovery of items taken in the raid on their home near Blackhall Rocks, east Durham, on Monday.

Having taken antiques and other property from the home, the raiders are thought to have started the fire to cover their tracks.

The blaze at the large detached house, which stands in its own grounds half-a-mile south of Blackhall Rocks, was seen by a police officer driving along the A1086 coast road on his way to work on Monday afternoon.

Firefighters were able to save the structure, but the inside of the house was destroyed.

The owners, who own a motorcycle business in the area, have been helping police to compile a list of stolen items.

These included antique clocks, one in green marble measuring 2ft by 14in, several crystal trays, bowls and candle holders, a set of pewter plates, Royal Doulton porcelain figurines, vases, a silver cigarette box, a monogrammed tea and coffee service and a Staffordshire pottery spaniel dog, about 2ft high.

The missing items are worth thousands of pounds.

A substantial cash reward has been offered by the family for information which could lead the capture of those responsible or the recovery of the stolen items.

Detective Constable Phil Keightley said: "It is very unlikely whoever set the fire going did so on the spur of the moment."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Peterlee CID, on 0191-586 2621.