This is a multi-agency press release on behalf of the Cumbria Local Resilience Forum.
Emergency services remain in attendance at a fire at an address in Main Street in Kirkby Lonsdale and all agencies are working together to deal with this incident.
A number of people are affected. 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.
We can confirm that sadly there has been one fatality - a man aged in his 40s has died. He was recovered from the property where the fire started – and he was declared deceased at the scene this morning at around 6.30am Sunday morning. His family has been notified and is being supported and we ask the media to respect their feelings at this time.
There is one other casualty, a man who self-presented at Lancashire Infirmary with minor injuries and to be checked for potential smoke inhalation.
There is not believed to be any other casualties or injuries as a result of this incident at this time.
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 and clearly sign posted.
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."
People living in the town are asked to continue to keep doors and windows closed.
People are 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.