Tribute paid to sisters who died in Aberdeen fire

An online fundraiser has been organised for Aanchal, left, and Shikshya Subedi

Two women who died after an Aberdeen fire have been described as "kind, loving" sisters.

Shikshya and Aanchal Subedi, who were 24 and 28 respectively, died after the fire at a block of flats in the city's Back Hilton Road on Monday.

A baby, who was not related to the sisters, was rescued by firefighters and taken to hospital before being discharged.

An online fundraiser set up for the sisters has raised more than £8,000.

It was started by Michelle Munro on behalf of her friend Susan Subedi - the older sister of Shikshya and Aanchal.

• Two women die following Aberdeen flat fire

Mrs Munro said: "They lived together, they were very friendly and outgoing girls and would do anything for anyone. It's just awful.

"My best friend's two younger sisters tragically lost their lives in the fire inside their flat, along with their cat.

"No-one should have to bury their child, let alone two.

"I have known Susan over 10 years and the sisters would come and visit."

Mrs Munro said it was her understanding that the fire did not break out in the sisters' flat.

'Horrific time'

She said the online fundraising was to help the family "say their prayers and give them the funeral they deserve".

Mrs Munro added: "I am seeking the generosity and kindness of the public to help raise funds to give them the best send off they deserve for these two beautiful, kind, loving girls.

"I do not want them (relatives) to have to worry about finances when going through so much heartache."

Mrs Munro said all the sisters came from Nepal originally.

The Subedi family is setting up a charity in memory of the sisters, to support young girls in their Nepalese village pursue higher education.

Emergency services were called to the flat at 18:00 on Monday

Emergency services were alerted to the fire at about 18:00 on Monday.

A joint police and fire investigation was launched, but police said there did not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said seven fire engines and specialist resources were sent to the building.