A middle-aged woman who was in a critical condition following an arson attack at flats in Devizes has died.

A Wiltshire police spokesman said: "The woman’s family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time. They are being supported by a specially trained family liaison officer.

The Brunel Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) is leading the investigation into the incident."

Det Chief Insp Darren Hannant said: “Firstly, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family of the woman who has tragically died following this fire.

“The investigation is now being led by MCIT, with the assistance of local community officers and CID.

“We have already spoken to a number of local residents and we continue to urge anyone who may have information in relation to any suspicious activity in the area prior to 1am to contact us on 101 if they have not already done so.”

A/Insp Pete Foster said: “A mobile police point is now located in Waiblingen Way and is likely to remain there for the next few days while enquiries are continuing at the scene. Any local residents who feel concerned about the incident, or wish to raise any issues or questions, are encouraged to visit the police point and speak to officers.

“Officers have been in Waiblingen Way today to speak to residents and I know that many of them, as well as some of those on our social media pages, have expressed concerns relating to a series of small fires in the area back in the summer. I would like to stress the importance of not speculating as to whether these incidents are linked, or naming individuals, especially on social media, and allow officers to conduct a thorough and timely investigation."

Police were called by the fire service shortly after 1am to a report of a fire at a block of flats in Waiblingen Way.

Police officers assisted approximately 35 firefighters at the scene alongside colleagues from the ambulance service.

A woman, aged in her 50s, was taken to the Great Western Hospital in Swindon in a critical condition due to smoke inhalation, but she sadly died this afternoon.