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Man dies in early morning blaze
2011-05-21 16:21:12
22 May 2011 Last updated at 00:53 Share this page Delicious Digg Facebook reddit StumbleUpon Twitter Email Print Off-duty fireman dies after blaze in East Linton It took firefighters three hours to extinguish the blaze
A man who died after a house blaze was an off-duty firefighter.
Paul Fleming, 39, died at the scene of the blaze at Longstone Avenue in East Linton, East Lothian.
It took his colleagues from Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service three hours to bring the blaze under control after it took hold on Saturday morning.
Despite their efforts, they were unable to save the off-duty firefighter, who was a member of the Dalkeith White Watch unit in Midlothian.
Assistant Chief Officer Alex Clark said: "It was with great sadness and regret that I informed staff today of the tragic death of Paul Fleming from Dalkeith White Watch.
"Despite the best efforts of our colleagues from East Linton and Haddington, he sadly died at the scene.
"We offer our most heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and all who knew him at this sad time."
It is understood a passer-by saw smoke coming from the property, raised the alarm and went to help.
Crews from East Linton and Haddington, as well as the fire investigation unit, attended but Mr Fleming died at the scene.
The fire service has been liaising with police following the incident.
A spokesman for the Lothian and Borders force said: "Investigations are continuing to establish the cause of the fire."