A FIRE claimed the life of a woman after flames billowed through a block of flats in Paisley.

The blaze spread across the ground floor of flats in Fairway Avenue before catching onto the first floor yesterday evening.

The flames and smoke were seen from out the windows as a crowd gathered to watch the horrific scene.

Police cordoned off a section of the road as ambulances and fire services arrived at around 4pm.

Fire fighters entered the building wearing breathing apparatus as they searched for occupants.

Tragically a 49-year-old woman's life was lost as a result of the blaze however no further details of the victim are available yet.

A 35-year-old woman was also taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital to be treated with smoke inhalation but has since been released.

Police Scotland are currently investigating into the cause behind the fire.

Chief inspector Sandy Nelson, who is based at Paisley Police Office, said: "The person who died in the fire has not been identified yet.

"The house was totally gutted by the fire and the close was evacuated for safety.

"Police and the fire services stayed in the area throughout the night.

"We have yet to establish if it is a criminal matter or what the circumstances are.

"Investigations are continuing for the cause of the fire."

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service added: "We received reports of a fire at a flat shortly before 4.05pm.

"Fire fighters reached the scene within five minutes to find an already well-developed fire in progress.

“Eight fire fighters in breathing apparatus were fully committed to the property tasked with carrying out a systematic search and other fire fighting duties.

“Crews from Paisley, Barrhead and Renfrew were in attendance.

"Residents were evacuated from properties and a single crew remained at the scene during the night.

"A thermal imaging camera was used to make sure there was no hidden fire in the building.

"Spcialist officers from the unit will attend the scene this morning and work closely with Police Scotland."