A man's body has been recovered from the site of a flat fire.

It is believed to be that of the 73-year-old occupant of the flat at Lonsdale Court, off Pategill Road, Penrith, where the blaze began.

The area was made sufficiently safe this afternoon for a search of the premises to take place.

Confirmation is not possible until formal identification has taken place but it is strongly believed the body is that of the occupant, previously thought to be 75, say police.

Officers are in contact with his next of kin.

Inspector Andy Hanson said: “This has been a distressing incident for all involved and sadly we are now able to confirm that one person died in the fire.

"We are now working hard to secure the building to allow the other residents to return to their flats – this is expected to take a considerable amount of time."

The adjoining flats - sheltered accommodation for older people - were evacuated.

Twenty seven residents were taken to the town's leisure centre and have now been found accommodation elsewhere.

An appeal was today made by police for clothing and toiletries following the fire. Pyjamas and nightdresses were particularly needed.

Enough supplies were received within a few hours that the appeal was closed.

Police inspector Kim Brennand said yesterday: “This has been a very distressing day for the residents of Lonsdale Court and we are working hard with partner organisations to support them and their families at this difficult time.

“The search will continue for the man who has not yet been located.

"However, sadly all indications at present are that he will not have survived the fire and subsequent structural damage to the building."

Insp Brennand praised the local community for its "outstanding support", saying: “Sainsbury's and Morrisons have provided supplies for those who have had to leave their homes. Esso has provided hot coffee for those affected. Penrith Leisure Centre has been exemplary in their work and support.

"Carers have been coming in on their days off and during lunchtimes to help look after people’s welfare. Immediately after the incident neighbours brought out duvets and hot drinks for those who were evacuated.

“I would like to offer our most sincere thanks to everyone for rallying together to support those affected, we have seen true community spirit today.”

Forensic investigators and the fire service are investigating the cause of the fire.

Residents living nearby reported hearing a loud bang at around 9.30am.

Eyewitnesses living on nearby Pategill Road saw flames coming from a downstairs bedroom.

One man who lives on Pategill Road, who asked not to be named, said he and a neighbour tried to get into the room but were forced back by the flames.

He said that he was alerted after hearing a bang.

"We don't know what caused it but when I looked out I could see flames coming out."

Emergency services are continuing to work at the scene. They are expected to remain there "for a few days".

Making the building secure enough for residents to return could take several weeks or months, say police.