Man, 68, died after fire in sheltered housing

Police were called to Blackberry Mead, Stevenage, to reports of a fire

A 68-year-old man has died after a fire at sheltered housing.

Four fire engines attended the fire on Blackberry Mead, Stevenage, having received a call at 05:59 GMT.

Firefighters from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue arrived at the scene within seven minutes of the call and used breathing apparatus to search the property and extinguish the fire.

A 49-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman were taken to hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

The 68-year-old died at the scene.

Police are working with the fire service to establish the cause of the blaze.

Mark Barber, deputy chief fire officer, said: "I'd like to thank our firefighters for their swift actions in responding to this fire, which prevented it from spreading to neighbouring properties."