Fundraiser to help ex-Marine and family after suspected arson attack raises more than £11,000 within hours

A fund launched to help a family after their home, car and caravan were set alight in a suspected arson attack has already hit more than £11,000.
A car, house and caravan were set alight in a suspected arson attack in WingateA car, house and caravan were set alight in a suspected arson attack in Wingate
A car, house and caravan were set alight in a suspected arson attack in Wingate

They were able to flee and escaped injury, with Durham Constabulary now working with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service on an investigation.

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A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson, with the emergency services both issuing appeals for anyone with information to get in touch with investigators.

A family car was also damaged.A family car was also damaged.
A family car was also damaged.

Sean has since sent his thanks to the community for its help following the incident.

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As the inquiries continue, Kevin Miller has launched a Crowndfunder page to help the Ivey family recover from the ordeal.

The page says: “I have started this page to try to raise an amount of money to Help a former Royal Marine Commando.

A roof was damaged in the suspected arson attackA roof was damaged in the suspected arson attack
A roof was damaged in the suspected arson attack
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"I served with Sean at 45 Commando and he is a man of exceptional character with Integrity and humility.

"I would like to try and raise some funds to help him and his family during this difficult time.

"I would really appreciate any donation no matter how small.

"I‘m sure every penny will help make a difference to Sean’s situation.

Damage to caravan following the incident.Damage to caravan following the incident.
Damage to caravan following the incident.
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“I understand during these difficult times of coronavirus everyone has had to make financial sacrifice but even if you spare £1 it would be greatly appreciated.”

The fire service has confirmed reports came into its control room just before 1.45am and it sent three crews from Peterlee and Wheatley Hill to the scene, with crews leaving at 5.04am.

A spokesperson said: “On arrival it was clear a car was well alight which then spread to a nearby caravan parked on a driveway and then to roof area of the house.”

Police have urged anyone with information to come forward and says extra officers will be patrolling the area.

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Durham Constabulary is asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact them on 101, quoting incident reference 23 of March 18 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

FireStoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 169 5558.