A resident has died following a fire at a Watford sheltered accommodation complex in the early hours of this morning.

The blaze occurred within a low-rise Watford Community Housing Trust flat in Longcroft, and was contained to that property.

There are no further details about the deceased available at this time.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

Ben Johnson, director of operations at Watford Community Housing Trust: “Sadly, there has been a fatality following a fire that took place in the early hours of Wednesday morning in one of our Longcroft sheltered flats.

“Our thoughts are with the resident’s family and we would like to offer our deepest sympathies at this difficult time. We are working with them to provide all the help and support we can.

“We are providing our full assistance to Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue, who are conducting an investigation.

“Our staff were on site quickly following the incident and we have maintained a presence at Longcroft throughout the day in order to provide reassurance and assistance to residents. I would encourage anyone who has any concerns to call us on 0800 218 2247.”