Arson probe into 'devastating' stately home fire

Shotley Park is a former stately home that was most recently used as a care home

An arson investigation is under way following a large fire at a former care home.

Emergency crews were called to the blaze at the former Shotley Park Residential Care Home, Shotley Bridge, County Durham, on Sunday evening.

Durham Police said the fire was being treated as arson.

Labour MP for Blaydon and Consett, Liz Twist, said it was "devastating news" to see the Grade II listed building damaged in that way.

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

The former stately home was most recently used as a care home, which closed in 2023 because of high costs.