An elderly woman has died following a house fire in Scratby near Great Yarmouth.

Fire engines from Great Yarmouth, Gorleston and Martham were called to the scene on Beach Road in the village just after 10am today (Friday, January 28).

Police officers on the scene believe the fire may have been caused by electrics after they were called to the scene at about 10.30am, although an investigation is to be carried out to confirm the cause.

Leading officer, inspector Zoe Catton, said: "Police were called this morning after a report from ambulance asking us to attend.

"Officers have arrived on scene and established that there has been a small fire inside the premises and unfortunately one female is deceased at scene.

"We are working with Norfolk Fire Service in an investigation to establish the cause of the fire, at this stage the exact cause of the fire is unknown but early investigations suggest it could be electrical related."

Insp Catton confirmed the deceased was an "elderly woman".

"In the meantime we are trying to make enquiries with regards to the next of kin," she added.

Forensic services are currently on the scene near the California Cliffs holiday park as well as two police cars and a fire car.

Fire crews wore breathing equipment and used hoses to extinguish the fire as well as a thermal imaging camera to check for hot spots.

Neighbours expressed their shock at the tragedy.

One described the woman as “ever so lovely and quiet.”

Another said: “It is a very sad day.”
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