A BLAZE at a salvage yard has caused damage estimated at tens of thousands of pounds.

The fire at D&S Commercial Salvage on the Albert Hill Industrial Estate, Darlington, which is being treated as suspicious, badly damaged a corrugated metal factory unit.

Three skip wagons were destroyed and a large quantity of tyres were also lost during the blaze.

At its height the fire, reported at about 8.22pm on Saturday, was being tackled by crews from four appliances.

An aerial platform ladder was also in use, firefighters taking more than an hour-and-a-half to bring the blaze under control.

Inspector Eddie Bond, of Darlington Police, said yesterday that inquiries were still ongoing as to the cause and they were appealing for witnesses.

He said: "Anyone who was in the area at the time and who may have seen anything suspicious should ring our CID on (01325) 742111.