A BODY has been found in a house near Chard that was severely damaged by fire at the weekend, police have confirmed. 

The fire in Windwhistle, Cricket St Thomas, was reported to the emergency services at around 5am on Sunday, November 27.

Police officers could not enter the house until Tuesday because it was unsafe.

On Monday, police said that one person remained “unaccounted for”. Today, they said a man's body has been found in the house.

His family are being supported by specially trained liaison officers. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “On Tuesday, November 29, officers gained access to a house in Windwhistle, Cricket St Thomas, which was severely damaged by fire on Sunday, November 27.

“A search of the property has been carried out, with the support of specially trained police dogs.

“Sadly, a body was located in the house and, while formal identification has yet to be completed, it is believed to be a man who was previously unaccounted for.

“The man’s death is not being treated as suspicious, and officers are carrying out enquiries on behalf of the coroner.

“Specially-trained family liaison officers are supporting the man’s family and our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.”