Fire breaks out at former care home

The listed building was used as a care home until 2023

A fire has broken out at a derelict Grade II-listed building which used to be a care home.

It started at the former Shotley Park Residential Care Home, Shotley Bridge, County Durham, at about 22:20 BST on Sunday.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said five engines battled the blaze at its height.

A spokesperson confirmed two crews remained at the building, dampening the fire down.

The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage have not yet been confirmed.

Durham Police said the A694 had been closed between Shotley Bridge's Front Street and East Law while crews worked at the scene.

The former stately home dates back to the 1800s.

The building was most recently used as a care home, which closed in 2023 over high costs.