Tragedy as man in his 40s dies after huge fire tore through apartment block with families evacuated in ‘major incident’

A MAN in his 40s has died after a terrifying blaze ripped through an apartment block today.

Firefighters raced to the scene in Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, shortly before 6am, where smoke could be seen billowing from the three-storey building.

A major incident was declared, with residents evacuated and roads to the area cordoned off.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene at 6.30am and his family has been informed.

Another person caught in the fire was rushed to Lancashire Infirmary with minor injuries and was checked for smoke inhalation.

There is not believed to be any other casualties or injuries as a result of this incident at this time.

Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale remains closed and likely to remain closed for some time whilst emergency services, including Cumbria Fire and Rescue, Police and the Local Authority, continue with their work at the scene.

It is expected road closures will remain in place for the coming few days and diversion routes will be put in place and clearly sign posted.

Superintendent Paddy O'Hara, as Chair of the Strategic Co-ordinating Group overseeing the response to the fire, said: "The cause of the fire is presently unknown.

"Investigators from both Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service and Cumbria Constabulary are on hand to enter the building as soon as it is safe to do so.

"I'd like to thank the emergency services personnel and our partner agencies for all their hard work in Kirkby Lonsdale today, and the local community for their patience."

People living in the town have been asked to continue to keep doors and windows closed.

People are urged not to travel into the town at this time, however further updates will be provided as soon as possible so that the local community and businesses are supported at this sensitive time.

Emergency services remain at an address in Main Street in Kirby Lonsdale with all agencies are working together to deal with the incident.