Father 'absolutely devastated' as son hurt in fire

Blaine was seriously hurt in the incident an remains in hospital

A father is "absolutely devastated" after his son was left fighting for his life following a suspected arson attack.

Ten-year-old Blaine suffered 40% burns after he was forced to jump from a window to escape the fire at his family home in Peterlee.

The blaze, which is believed to have been started in a wheelie bin, also destroyed the house and killed one of their pet dogs.

A man in his mid-20s was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and has been released on bail.

The family home was destroyed in the fire

Blaine's father Paul Beattie was working his regular night shift at Asda on 14 December when he found out about the fire.

His colleague Paula Townley, who has set up an online fundraiser to help the family, said: "I saw Paul run towards the doors at work, and I'll never forget the look on his face - he was as white as a sheet and the panic on his face is something I just can't get out of my head.

"He's absolutely devastated. I don't think it has fully hit him what has actually happened."

Blaine was asleep when the fire spread to his home

Blaine remains in the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle where he is expected to require lengthy treatment. It is understood he has now been moved to the children's unit.

His 21-year-old brother Cameron suffered minor burns and the effects of smoke inhalation.

The family lost all their belongings in the blaze including presents Mr Beattie had bought for the boys.

"All he can think about is his kids' Christmas presents," Paula said, adding: "He keeps telling me about replacing them.

"It's awful to see what’s happened to Paul and his family, he's just a single dad trying to provide for his family - I wanted to try and help them as much as I possibly could."

The GoFundMe page caught the attention of ex-Geordie Shore star Charlotte Crosby, who donated £500.

Durham Police are continuing to investigate the incident and are appealing for anyone in the area to come forward to assist.