A sixth body has been found as a "meticulous" investigation into the cause of a house fire continues.

The victims, including three young children, were killed when flames ripped through the mid-terraced property in Hounslow, west London, last Sunday night (12 November).

A man was also taken to hospital with serious burns, but he is still receiving treatment and his condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

Shocked local residents in Hounslow, west London, said the flames were so large it appeared as if the entire street were alight.

Floral tributes were left at the scene including one from Springwell School in Hounslow where the three children - named as Arohi, Riyaan and Shanaya - were pupils.

The Met Police have now confimred that six people died as result of a house fire in Hounslow, west London (credit: SWNS/Steve Chatterley).

Police and London Fire Brigade said five bodies were found in the charred remains of the property and a sixth person was "unaccounted" for.

But they have confirmed that a sixth body was found when a search team were finally able to enter the building after the walls were shored up, and the roof removed to make it safe.

Police said the families of all those concerned have been informed of the development and are being supported by specialist officers.

Post-mortem examinations and formal identification will take place in due course.

The investigation is being led by officers from the Met Police's West Area Basic Command Unit along with the London Fire Brigade (LFB) and in consultation with the Coroner.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Garth Hall said: "Firstly, I want to express my sincere condolences to all those affected by this terrible incident.

"The deaths of so many people, including children, is simply heart-breaking.

"We intend to complete a meticulous investigation into how this tragedy happened.

"For many days now the scene has been too unstable and dangerous to complete many of our inquiries.

"It was only after the walls were shored up, and the roof removed, that it became safe enough for search teams to enter the premises.

"We have now been able to sadly confirm the death of a sixth person.

"The investigation into the cause of the fire continues and I must express my thanks to the London Fire Brigade, their knowledge and experience has been crucial in helping us understand what may have happened that dreadful night.

"These deaths are still being treated as unexplained and we are liaising closely with the Coroner.

"We understand that family and communities will be looking for answers, but this will be a thorough investigation and we will not rush to any judgement, but follow where the evidence leads."

Residents in Channel Close, Hounslow believe the fire could have been started by a firework or candle although the police have not yet confirmed the cause (credit: SWNS/ Steve Chatterley).

He added: "Should there be any change in the nature of this inquiry, we will share that information immediately.

"Lastly, we are still appealing for witnesses, or anyone who recorded anything on their phones that night, to come forward.

"If you have anything that can assist this investigation please get in contact.

"Any bit of information, no matter how small, may help us understand what happened that night."

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