Man in his 90s dies in fire at house in Stafford

A man in his 90s has died in a house fire.

A passer-by who heard a smoke alarm coming from the property in Peel Street, Castletown, Stafford, at about 06:00 GMT called fire crews.

The man was found unresponsive by crews who forced their way inside and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two adjoining properties were evacuated as a precaution. An investigation has been started, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said.

Station manager Leigh Richards, who went to the scene, said: "Our thoughts and condolences are very much with the man's family at this tragic time.

"Specialist fire investigators will be in the area today to establish the cause of the fire.

"I'd like to thank the public for their patience and understanding at the cordon whilst we continue to work at the scene."

West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was called to the property at 05:53 GMT.

"On arrival, crews discovered one patient, a man, who had been rescued from the house by fire service colleagues," they said.

"Sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene."