Child dies and five hospitalised in house fire

A child has died in a house fire in east London, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has said.

The fire happened on the ground and first floor of a terraced house on Napier Road in East Ham shortly before 8:30 BST.

The child was pronounced dead at the scene, an LFB spokesperson said.

Five others were treated by the London Ambulance Service then taken to hospital. No details have been provided on their condition.

LFB Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said: “This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.

“Staff will be in the local community over the coming days to offer support and advice where needed."

He added LFB staff involved in the response will be offered counselling and trauma support.

The cause of the child's death is under investigation. Details on their age and gender were not provided.

The fire saw a response from 40 firefighters in six fire engines who brought the blaze under control by 9:09 BST.