AN investigation has been launched after two people died in a 'tragic' house fire in Walkden.

A man and a woman, believed to be in their 80s, were found at the semi-detached property in Edge Fold Crescent in the early hours of this morning.

Police and fire crews were called to the scene shortly before 3.50am, and arrived to find a 'severe' fire raging in the upstairs of the house.

Despite firefighters efforts to rescue them, the elderly couple were pronounced dead at the scene.

The fire is currently being treated as an accident, although enquiries are ongoing.

A joint investigation between police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is underway.

Edge Fold Crescent is currently closed to traffic as a screen remains in place outside the property.

Ben Levy, GMFRS' area manager for Salford and Trafford said: “It’s a tragic incident and first and foremost our thoughts are with the families and friends of those involved.

“Crews worked in difficult conditions alongside colleagues from North West Ambulance Service but despite best efforts were unable to save the couple.

“It’s too early to determine a cause and fire investigators will be working closely with the police to find out what happened.

“At this stage there is nothing which suggests suspicious activity and we are treating the incident as an accident. Again, our hearts go out to the families and neighbours who are waking up to news of this terrible loss.”