A number of animals including a beloved Shetland pony have died after a devastating "arson attack" at an allotment in County Durham.
Emergency services were called to a fire at James Street allotments, in South Hetton at around 9.15pm on Tuesday, (February 23).
Both Durham Constabulary and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene and the fire was extinguished.
Police have since launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and said officers are currently treating the incident as arson.
Officers have since appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "Police were called by the fire service at 9.15pm yesterday to a fire at James Street allotments, in South Hetton.
"Sadly, several animals died as a result of the fire, including a Shetland pony.
"Officers are treating the incident as arson, and an investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
"Anyone with any information that could help the investigation is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 456 of February 23.
"Alternatively, information can be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
