A MAN has been confirmed dead after a fire ripped through a house in Cirencester this morning.

The man, in his 50s, was rescued by firefighters from a flat in Kemble Drive after emergency services were called shortly after 7am this morning.

Firefighters immediately administered CPR and defibrillation but the victim was later pronounced dead at the scene.

The man's death is currently being treated as unexplained but officers believe that the death is not suspicious.

Police are working with fire investigators to establish the cause of the fire and the coroner has been informed.

About sixty per cent of the ground floor maisonette is severely damaged by fire, and the back of the house appears to be burnt (pictured below).

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There are two flats in the building, and all residents living in those flats have been evacuated.

A fire engine from Cirencester arrived on scene within three minutes, forcing entry into the property. A further three fire engines from Cirencester, Tetbury and Fairford also attended.

County councillor for Cirencester Park, Cllr Joe Harris said: “I was shocked and saddened to hear about the house fire on Kemble Drive this morning that tragically took the life of one resident. 

"Our thoughts are with the victim’s relatives and friends at this awful time.”

“I’d like to pay tribute to Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service who arrived quickly on the scene and battled hard to save the individual’s life. When things go wrong these are the people who risk their lives running towards danger.”

“I’d encourage everyone to ensure that they have smoke alarms installed and that they are in working order, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue service will visit your home and install smoke alarms free of charge so please get intouch.”

John Beard, assistant chief fire officer, said: “This incident highlights the importance of working smoke alarms.”

It is understood there was a hard-wired smoke detector that did activate during the incident.

A witness said he saw dark smoke coming from the back of the house at about 7.30am. 

He said: "It was billowing out. But there was nothing on this side of the house."

Andrew Smith, 29, who lives near the damaged house, woke up at 7.20am and witnessed the scene outside his window. 

He said: "I saw lots and lots of smoke. I did see at one point a fireman run into the house with his full fire kit."

For a free safe and well home visit, call freephone 0800 180 4140 or visit: www.glosfire.gov.uk