Chester le Street - Silence frustrates fire attack inquiry

Barry McCann, 36, from Chester-le-Street, was doused with a flammable liquid and set alight in the toilet at the Warriors Arms in Front Street, Great Lumley, on Sunday, September 16.

He is in the intensive care unit at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, suffering from severe burns to his arms, legs and face.

His condition is still described as critical.

He has undergone surgery and skin grafts, is still sedated and has yet to speak about the incident.

The attack happened after Mr McCann had been out in Chester-le-Street with his girlfriend earlier in the day.

They parted company and he went to a family christening at the Warriors pub where he was later found, at about 9.30pm, by the landlord in the toilets with his shirt on fire.

Det Sgt Tony Dumighan, of Chester-le-Street CID, said they believe Mr McCann was doused with an accelerant before being set on fire.

Police believe that when he parted company with his partner he was carrying about £2,000 in £50 notes.

The whereabouts of the cash remains a mystery.

Mr Dumighan said: "We are disappointed with the quality of the information we have received from the public in the village.

"We are convinced they are holding important details that would help take the inquiry forward. I would urge them to think again and get in touch with the incident room or ring Crimestoppers anonymously.

"I would also appeal to any members of the public and the business community to come forward if they have received £50 notes in unusual or suspicious circumstances in the days after the attack."

Anyone with information should contact Chester-le-Street police station on (0191) 388 4311 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

l Dominic Younger, 29, and Robert Leslie Iley, 52, both from Great Lumley, are to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on October 18 charged with the attempted murder of Mr McCann

They were granted conditional bail when they appeared before Peterlee magistrates last Thursday.