Two people have died following the severe house fire at Distington on Sunday morning, police have confirmed.

The news follows as Cumbria Police and Cumbria Fire and Rescue were called at 4.47am Sunday (22 May) with a report of a house fire at Toll Bar Houses.

Police have confirmed that a 58-year-old man and a 14-year-old girl, both from Distington, died at the scene of the fire.

A spokesperson from Cumbria Constabulary said: “Police and Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service are working together to investigate the potential cause of the fire.

"Neighbouring properties were evacuated and there are no further reported injuries at this time," they said. 

A number of roads remain closed as emergency services continue to deal with this incident. They are:

  • A595 is closed southbound between the roundabout near Dobies’ dealership and the roundabout at Howgate.
  • A597 is closed between the roundabout near to the Toyota dealership and the junction of Hallwood Road.
  • B5306 is closed between the roundabout near to the Toyota dealership and the junction of Barfs Road.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area. Visit the traffic link map at www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map to keep up to date with the latest situation on the roads. 

READ MORE: Emergency services attend major house fire in Distington - residents evacuated