Residents have spoken of their shock at yesterday's bungalow blaze in which a Nelson woman died.

The body of the woman, who is believed to be in her 50s and disabled, was discovered by firefighters after they were called to her home in Rakeshouse Road around 3am.

Dawn Cummings, of Rakeshouse Road, said: “The first I heard was when the fire crews turned up and started banging the door down to get in.

“The firemen were about for a long time and the police were at the house all morning.

“I can’t really believe it, you just don’t expect it to happen so close to you.”

Steven Lockwood, also of Rakeshouse Road, said: “It’s unbelievable when something like this happens in your own neighbourhood.

"I woke up to see all the police outside. I think people are still trying to come to terms with it.

“It is such a shame for the family.”

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s a real tragedy.

"I didn’t know her that well, she always kept herself to herself but she and her partner seemed nice enough. It is a huge shock.”

Coun Nadeem Younis, who represents the Bradley ward in Nelson, said: “It is tragic news and my thoughts and feelings are with the family.

"I offer my sincerest condolences.”