08 December 2024 , 17:13
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A man has died in a fire in Cumbria, with emergency services still at the scene, and people warned to stay away from the town.
Cumbria Police said the victim, in his forties, was found in the property in Kirkby Lonsdale where the fire started, and pronounced dead at around 6.30am.
The blaze broke out at apartments opposite the Red Dragon pub in Main Street.
"Emergency services remain in attendance at a fire at an address in Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale and all agencies are working together to deal with this incident," said a statement on Sunday afternoon.
Another man took himself to hospital with minor injuries and was checked for potential smoke inhalation, but police don’t believe there are any other casualties.
Locals have been asked to keep doors and windows closed and people are urged not to travel into the town for the moment.
Police said Main Street was likely to remain closed for some time.
Superintendent Paddy O’Hara 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."
Police said a reception centre has been set up at a church in Queen Square and plans are under way to get accommodation for anyone who cannot return home.