Girl, seven, dies after 'arson attack' on Darlington house

Emergency services were called to Esk Road in Darlington on 1 December

A seven-year-old girl has died following a house fire in what is believed to have been an arson attack.

The girl was taken to Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary after the blaze in Darlington on 1 December.

Durham Police said a 16-year-old boy had been arrested on suspicion of arson and was released under investigation.

Det Ch Insp Traci McNally said: "Our thoughts are with the little girl's family and friends following this tragic incident."

A post-mortem examination is due to be held in the coming days, a force spokeswoman said.

Emergency services were called to the home on Esk Road at about 13:50 GMT.