Wiltshire Police have confirmed that they are not treating the death of a man in a canal boat fire on the Kennet and Avon Canal near Marsh Farm, Hilperton, this morning as suspicious.

Formal identification of the man, who is said to be in his 40s, is likely to take place in the next few days.

A passing dog walker called the emergency services just before 7.20am after noticing smoke coming from the stationary 45ft-long narrow boat.

Crews from Trowbridge, Melksham and Devizes attended, together with a water rescue team from Trowbridge and a 4x4 pump from Westbury. 

Firefighters quickly found the man and removed him from the boat but he was confirmed dead at the scene.

A spokesman for Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is believed to be accidental and the investigation is focusing on the wood burning stove and confirmed that a dog was found dead on the boat.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.