Shock after man, 50, dies in house fire

It happened in the East Link area of the town at about 9.20am on Saturday.

The man was found dead at the scene by emergency services.

North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has expressed his shock and sadness following the death.

Mr Dunne said: “I am very shocked and saddened that a man has sadly lost his life in a fire at his home in Holywood. This is a real tragedy and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this terrible time.

“This tragedy has left a real sense of grief and sadness within the local community particularly as we approach the Christmas period. This is a close knit community and a tragedy such as this is felt right across the community.

Alliance Holywood Councillor Andrew Muir has expressed his condolences.

“The local community is in shock at this news, particularly so close to Christmas,” said Councillor Muir.

“My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to the family and friends of the man who died in this tragic incident.

“I wish to praise the bravery of the emergency services in their attempts to tackle the fire and rescue this man. I would also encourage anyone with information on this fire to contact the authorities so the cause can be determined.”