Man dies after house fire on Orkney island

A man has died today following a fire at a property on the island of Hoy in Orkney.

The fire, which took place at a house in the St Colm’s Quadrant area of Longhope, was first reported at 9.30am this morning.

Fire crews attended to provide assistance at the scene and extinguish the fire, however, the body of a man was discovered inside the property.

His next of kin has been made aware.

Detective Inspector Scott Macdonald said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this difficult time for them.

“Inquiries are now ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are working with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“This investigation is at an early stage but there are no apparent suspicious circumstances.

“As with all sudden deaths,  a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.”

Anybody with any information is asked to contact police by dialling 101.