A MAN who attempted to burn down his own home has been remanded in custody ahead of his sentence.

Brian Pickering admitted a charge of arson with intent to endanger life on September 15 last year on the eve of his trial at Teesside Crown Court.

The 63-year-old, of Millbrook Avenue, Middlesbrough, was remanded in custody by Recorder Toby Hedworth.

No evidence was offered in respect of a second charge of arson with intent to endanger life.

Two children were among five people who escaped the blaze, which blew out the windows of the house in Brambles Farm.

Pickering will return to court to be sentenced on March 24.