POLICE are investigating after fire tore through the home of an elderly couple.
A 78-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman were forced to escape as flames spread through their home on Pentland Close, in Peterlee, east Durham, late on Friday night.
Police officers, who were dealing with a car on fire nearby, heard shouts and rushed to the scene.
The couple were treated for shock and smoke inhalation.
It is believed the fire started in a wheelie bin before spreading to the semi-detached home.
Police are investigating the cause of both the house and car fires.
Anyone with information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 0345-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.
An 18-year-old man from the area has been arrested on suspicion of arson.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here