AN ELDERLY man was found dead following a fire at his Rodbourne home.

Ronald Ford, 80, had lived at 21 Fosse Close for more than 40 years.

Neighbours described Mr Ford as a recluse, who rarely spoke to anyone and had few visitors.

Police are investigating the incident and are unable to confirm whether there were suspicious circumstances surrounding the death until a post mortem was completed.

The fire happened at 6.10pm on Tuesday night and the street was busy with firefighters, police and scenes of crime officers until midday this morning (Wednesday).