Police have questioned two care home workers after a 91-year-old woman suffered scalding while being washed.

It is understood she suffered the injury when part of her body was lowered into a basin of scalding water.

The injured pensioner, who has not been named, was today in stable condition at University Hospital of North Durham.

The incident happened at Mendip House in West Lane, Chester-le-Street, which is run by Durham County Council.

A council spokesman said today: ''We are investigating the circumstances that led to this incident but until we can clarify those circumstances we are not in a position to comment further.''

The two women workers, aged 41 and 53, were suspended following the incident, which happened on June 14.

The next day they were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

A Durham Police spokeswoman said: ''The pair were interviewed at Chester-le-Street police station regarding the injuries sustained by a 91-year-old female resident and have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.''