An elderly man and a woman, aged in their 90s, have died following a devastating house fire in a market town.

Emergency services were called to reports of a blaze at a property on Firs Drive in Rugby, Warks., at around 7.15am this morning (Mon).

Despite the efforts of fire crews, police and medics nothing could be done to save the pensioners and they were pronounced dead at the scene.

A second woman was also assessed by ambulance crews but did not require any further treatment.

Warwickshire Police said an investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire and the victims' next of kin have been informed.

Chief Inspector Charlie Naughton said: "First of all, I'd like to extend my sympathies to the family of the man and woman who died."

"We're grateful to those in the area for their patience as I appreciate an emergency service presence such as this is impactive to the local community."

"Officers and firefighters remain on the scene and the investigation into the cause of the fire is still in its early stages at this time."

West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were called by the fire service at 7.12am and an ambulance and two paramedic officers attended the scene.

A service spokeswoman said: "Crews arrived to find fire colleagues tackling the fire."

"Sadly, despite the best efforts of the team of emergency service colleagues, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save a man and a woman inside the property, and they were both confirmed deceased on scene."

"A second woman was assessed by ambulance staff on scene before being discharged."