THE brother of a woman who died following an explosion that wrecked her home has joined police in a renewed appeal for witnesses to track down those responsible for the blast.

Norma Sinclair was badly burned in the blaze that swept through her home, in Wheatley Walk, Hardwick, Stockton, in July last year.

An investigation into the cause showed that the gas supply had been tampered with.

During the course of an investigation, a teenager was arrested several times, but there was insufficient evidence to prosecute him.

Ms Sinclair, who was 53, died in the burns unit of a hospital in Newcastle. An inquest into her death was held on Tyneside on Tuesday, which resulted in a verdict of unlawful killing.

Her brother, Neil, said yesterday: "This incident has had a devastating effect on our family. The person responsible for her death is still at large and the case is not closed.

"We want the person responsible brought to justice. This act of vandalism resulted in the death of my sister.

"If anyone can help the police in any way they should get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Stockton police, on (01642) 302226, or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555111.