Tributes paid after Lowestoft house fire victims are named as Andrew McInnes and William Cooper

Andrew McInnes, who was killed in the fire in Stanley Street, Lowestoft. Picture: Archant Library. (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic � 2012)

Firefighters burst into the burning home in Stanley Street at 1.15am this morning to rescue the two men, after neighbours were awoken by the smell of smoke coming from the property.

The men - aged 60 and 62 - were taken to the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston in a very serious condition, but both died a short time later.

Friends and neighbours have expressed their shock and sadness following the news.

MORE: Two people die following 'severe' Lowestoft house fire

William Cooper who was killed in the fire in Stanley Street, Lowestoft. Picture: Archant Library. (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic � 2012)

Friend Scott Howlett described how he had been round to the house and had spoken with Mr McInnes on Sunday afternoon – just hours before the devastating blaze.

He said Mr McInnes owned the house and used a wheelchair, with Mr Cooper, known as Billy, his carer.

'It is just a big shock,' he said. 'I really just can't believe it – it's awful.

'I have known Andrew about eight years. I went round there to see them on Sunday afternoon and again on Sunday night, but Billy had gone out and when there was no answer later I left them a loaf of bread on the doorstep.'

Scene of of a house fire in Stanley Street, Lowestoft. Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant © 2017)

Mr Howlett said that the men were 'well known in the street,' and they would head out to the seafront and feed the ducks in Kensington Gardens almost every day.

Police have said the fire is not thought to be suspicious.

A report will now be prepared for the coroner and inquests will be opened in due course.