Two children died in a house fire in Wolverhampton on Friday evening, West Midlands Police have said. The force launched an investigation following the incident in the UK city on April 24.

Officers, West Midlands Fire Service firefighters and West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedics rushed to the scene yesterday, after police received a report of a fire in Mason Street at around 8.30pm. Six firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property and rescued two young children, before providing emergency care. Ambulance medics also worked rapidly to administer advanced life support to both children, police said.

However, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, nothing could be done to save the youngsters, and they were pronounced dead at the scene a short time later, West Midlands Police said.

A statement released by the force on Saturday added: "Two other children and a woman were already out of the house before emergency services arrived. They were checked over by ambulance staff but did not need hospital treatment and were discharged at the scene."

Several 999 crews attended the scene - including fire crews from Bilston, West Bromwich and Bloxwich Fire Stations.

West Midlands Police said in their statement: "Our thoughts are with the children's loved ones and all those impacted by this heartbreaking incident.

"Police have cordoned off the scene as officers work with emergency service colleagues to establish the exact circumstances of the fire.

"Officers remain at the scene today and we thank the community for their support with the on-going investigation. The scene is expected to remain in place for some time at the property, which was extensively damaged, as enquiries continue.

"Anyone with information can contact us on 101 or via Live Chat quoting log 5640 of 24 April."