Police believe the three cars were the subject of an arson attack and have launched a full probe.
Neighbours on Hutton Place told how they looked outside shortly after 4.20am on Wednesday (November 6) to find the vehicles alight.
Video footage shows flames leaping from two of the cars.
Video footage taken by one local shows flames engulfing the cars. (Image: UGC) Pictures show the charred wreckages of the vehicles. One, which appeared to be a VW-type car, was totally destroyed in the blaze. A Vauxhall Corsa on one side and an Audi on the other were also extensively damaged.
One resident, who did not want to be named, said: “I woke up and heard shouting outside which could have been anyone. I went to the toilet and I saw this orange glow through the window.
“There were some big bangs going off.
“Loads of the neighbours were out on the street seeing what was happening.
“You just worry it is going to spread to your car or to the houses.
“It looked like the middle car was the one set alight because that was burning first and it’s the most damaged.”
Durham Police confirmed an investigation is underway.
A spokesperson added: “Investigators are treating the incident as arson.”
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A County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 4.18am to a car fire on Hutton Place in Newton Aycliffe.
“One fire engine from Newton Aycliffe Fire Station and one fire engine from Darlington Fire Station were in attendance. Crews left the scene at 5.30am.
“Firefighters were then called to a car fire on the same street at 5.38am. One fire engine from Newton Aycliffe Fire Station attended. Firefighters then left the scene at 5.53am.”
