EMERGENCY services were called out to a fatal fire in the New Forest on Saturday.

The blaze broke out at around 3.30am at a property in Esdaile Lane, Burley.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, a body was found.

Below is what we know so far on the fire and the investigation.

Update: Residents tell of shock after body found at scene of house fire

What happened

Police received reports of a fire at 3.35am - 10 minutes after the fire service was alerted.

Multiple fire engines from Hampshire and Dorset were dispatched to put out the flames.

Daily Echo: A police car in Ringwood Road. Picture: Simon RowleyA police car in Ringwood Road. Picture: Simon Rowley

In the space of half an hour, the entire building, comprising of two dwellings, was well alight.

A body was found in the house but formal identification is yet to take place.

Firefighters remained at the scene throughout the morning to dampen down the area and assess the structure of the house.

The cause of the fire

Police don't yet know what caused the blaze. An investigation to determine this is underway.

Officers warned a scene is expected to remain in place for a few days while enquiries continue.

Daily Echo: The fire service at the scene on Saturday. Picture: Simon RowleyThe fire service at the scene on Saturday. Picture: Simon Rowley

'A terrible tragedy'

The fire has come as a shock for villagers.

A man who lives near Esdaile Lane said: "I was woken up by lots of fire engines and there was smoke everywhere.

"This is a terrible tragedy for such a close-knit community."

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