Man killed in north east fire

Police are investigating the cause of a house fire near Fraserburgh which killed an elderly man this morning.

Fire crews were called to Findgask Cottages to the west of the town off the B9031 around 10.30am.

Thermal imaging equipment was used to detect occupants of the house following reports that someone was trapped within the property.

Police confirmed this afternoon that an elderly man died in the fire.

The victim, who is understood to have died from smoke inhalation, has not been identified.

Local senior officer for Aberdeenshire and Moray, David Rout, said: “Firstly, my thoughts are with the man’s family following this tragic incident.

“The risks of toxic smoke affect both old and young but the reality is the effects of smoke inhalation are far serious for older people.

“We will now investigate the cause of the fire with out partners at Police Scotland.”