Family home of former Royal Marine destroyed after two suspected arson attacks
Video report by Julie Harrison
A County Durham family say they're overwhelmed by the generosity of the local community after their home was destroyed in two suspected arson attacks, just two days apart.
More than a quarter of a million pounds has been raised so far to support the Ivey family.
Former Marine Sean Ivey, aged 38, believes he was targeted after standing up to anti-social behaviour in Wingate.
Sean Ivey, his wife and two young children fled from the first fire at their home in the early hours of Thursday 18 March. A second blaze was started a day later.
Kevin Miller, who served alongside Sean at 45 Commando, set up the fundraising page for the Ivey family.
Sean says the support shown to him and his family has received has been beyond amazing.
Sean Ivey's caravan and car were set alight first. The flames later spread to the family home, destroying it.
Photos show the extend of the damage to the family's car and caravan.
Extra police patrols were put in place in the Wingate area over the weekend after the two suspected arson attack.
Detectives say they are continuing with their investigations into the fires at Taylor Grove.
Four people were arrested over the weekend in connection with recent criminal activity in the Wingate area.
All four remain in custody and are being questioned by detectives.
Meanwhile, inquiries into the cause of the two suspected arson attacks are continuing. Two men, aged 22 and 25 were arrested last week on suspicion of arson. They have been released on police bail.
Inspector Emma Kay said: “We had additional patrols out in the village over the weekend and that extra police presence will continue."
A dispersal order was issued by Durham Constabulary to prevent other attacks from taking place.
The order was in pace over the weekend.
In response to the fires police say a number of additional officers, PCSOs and staff have been patrolling the Wingate area on foot, bikes and in cars.
Officers will be actively carrying out a number of enquiries over the coming weeks.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue service have been working alongside Durham Constabulary to determine the circumstances surrounding the suspected arson attacks.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Durham Constabulary, Crimestoppers or Firestoppers.