A man has died following a major fire on the Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale.

Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at a property opposite the Red Dragon pub, on the Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale on Sunday, December 8 at 5:45am.

Cumbria Police confirmed a man in his 40s has died at the property where the fire started.

He was declared dead at the scene around 6.30am Sunday morning.

His family has been notified and is being supported, police have said.

Another man self-presented at Lancashire Infirmary with minor injuries and to be checked for potential smoke inhalation.

Police do not believe there are any other casualties or injuries as a result of this incident at this time.

However, a number of people have been affected by the fire.

There is a reception centre in place at the Methodist Church in Queen Square and plans are already underway to secure accommodation and support for anyone who cannot return to their home. 

Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale remains closed and likely to remain closed for some time whilst emergency services, including Cumbria Fire and Rescue, Police and the Local Authority, continue with their work at the scene.

It is expected road closures will remain in place for the coming few days and diversion routes will be put in place.

Superintendent Paddy O’Hara, as Chair of the Strategic Co-ordinating Group overseeing the response to the fire, 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.

“I’d like to thank the emergency services personnel and our partner agencies for all their hard work in Kirkby Lonsdale today, and the local community for their patience.”

Police have advised those living in the town should continue to keep doors and windows closed.

In a statement they said: “People are also urged not to travel into the town at this time, however further updates will be provided as soon as possible so that the local community and businesses are supported at this sensitive time.”