People tried to save girl and aunt from house fire

Members of the public tried to save a seven-year-old and her aunt who were killed in a house fire, an inquest heard.

Natalie McDonald, 34, died alongside her niece Valentina Foster in the blaze at Birchington Avenue, Grangetown, near Middlesbrough, in the early hours of 26 August.

Teesside coroner Paul Appleton held brief, separate, inquest openings into their deaths and suspended further hearings as criminal proceedings have begun.

He said the cause of their deaths was the effects of fire.

The hearing was told Cleveland Fire Brigade was called to the fire on 26 August after receiving reports that people were believed to be trapped in the house.

"Prior to the arrival of the emergency services, members of the public made attempts to rescue people in the property," Appleton said.

"Very sadly, Valentina was recovered from the property and was subsequently pronounced deceased at the James Cook University Hospital."

McDonald, who had been married for just nine months, died at the scene.

In a statement released by Cleveland Police, her family said she had "the biggest, most beautiful wedding", where she "sparkled like the shining beauty she was".

"She was loved by everyone, she was bright, bubbly and full of life, the heart and soul of our street and community, loved by all.

"Her family has lost its beautiful, kind soul."

Valentina's family previously said she had been "deeply loved" and "will be missed beyond words".

Jaden Wright, 23, has appeared at Teesside Crown Court charged with two counts of murder, as well as offences related to other people who were injured in the blaze.

A judge set a date of 14 April 2027 for any trial to begin.

Follow BBC Tees on X,Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram and listen to Radio Tees on BBC Sounds.