Man arrested over Derby fire deaths of Philpott children

An inquest into the deaths of the children has been opened and adjourned

A 45-year-old man has been questioned by police in connection with a fire in Derby that killed six siblings.

Jade Philpott, 10, and brothers John, nine, Jack, eight, Jessie, six and Jayden, five, died in the blaze in May and Duwayne, 13, died three days later.

Their parents Mick Philpott, 55, and his wife Mairead, 31, have been charged with their murder.

Derbyshire Police said the 45-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday morning and later released on bail.

Detectives believe the fire was started using petrol close to the front door of the family home in Victory Road, Allenton.

The funerals for the children will take place at St Mary's Catholic Church on Friday.

Church officials said Mr and Mrs Philpott were not due to attend the funeral service.

An inquest into the deaths was opened and adjourned at Derby Coroner's Court last month by coroner Dr Robert Hunter.

More than 300 people attended a community event in June to remember the six children.

The event saw well-wishers joining hands and saying prayers outside the family home.

A collection was also made for a community fund to help pay for the funerals, which has raised more than £11,000.