London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe has offered his sincere condolences after the tragic death of five people at a house fire in Hounslow.

He said: “This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.

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“Staff will be in the local community today to offer support and advice where needed.

“The welfare of our staff is very important and all those involved will be offered support from our counselling and trauma service.”

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters were called to a house fire on Channel Close in Hounslow.

The ground floor and first floors of a mid-terraced house were destroyed by fire and part of the roof was also damaged by the blaze.

One man left the property before the Brigade arrived and was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus found a further five people on the first floor of the building who were sadly pronounced dead at the scene. One person remains unaccounted for.

The Brigade was called at 2226 and the fire was under control by 0125. Fire crews from Heston, Southall, Twickenham, Hayes, Feltham and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.