Donna Drewry is alleged to have caused the fire that swept through the property on Norfolk Drive in Attleborough.

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Six fire crews battled to control the blaze that broke out at 3.15pm on March 3 with neighbouring households warned to keep windows closed and a thick column of black smoke visible from the nearby A11.

Norwich Magistrates’ Court heard the 49-year-old lived at the Flagship Housing owned detached house with her 12-year-old and 20-year-old sons.

Damage following blaze at house on Norfolk Drive in Attleborough. (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Jackie Hanlon, prosecuting, said it was alleged the fire had been started when she started to burn a hoodie top while in a “state of distress”.

Flames had got out of control and had quickly spread to the upstairs of the family home, she added.

No-one was injured in the fire but the property was seriously damaged.

Six fire crews were called to the fire at Norfolk Drive in Attleborough. (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Donna Drewry did not enter a plea when she appeared at Norwich Magistrates' Court (Image: Facebook)

In the aftermath Drewery was initially taken to hospital as a precaution but was transferred to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre and subsequently charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Appearing in the dock accompanied by a court security officer she spoke only to confirm her name, age and that her home address was in Norfolk Drive but did not enter a plea to the charge.

Deputy District Judge Jacqui Appleton told her: “The charge you face is so serious that this court does not have the powers to deal with it.”

Fire fighters at the scene of an incident at Norfolk Drive in Attleborough. (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

She sent the case to Norwich Crown Court with a plea and trial preparation hearing scheduled for April 2.

Drewery was remanded to remain in custody at HMP Peterborough until the next court date due to the “nature and seriousness of the alleged offences”.

David Foulkes, defending, said: “We are not seeking bail given the nature of the charge.”

© Eastern Daily Press