A MAN died in a canal boat fire on the Kennet and Avon Canal near Marsh Farm, Hilperton, this morning.

It is thought that the unidentified male was in his late 40s and that his 45ft boat was alight for some time.

A dog walker called fire services at 7.19am and tried to help rescue the man but it is understood that the windows were too hot to touch.

Crews from Trowbridge, Melksham and Devizes attended, together with a water rescue team from Trowbridge and a 4x4 pump from Westbury. Four breathing apparatus wearers used two hose reel jets and a main jet to tackle the blaze.

Firefighters found the man on board the boat and removed him but he was confirmed dead at the scene and police have sectioned a 200m cordon at the canal.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The identity of the man will be released by Wiltshire Police once next of kin have been informed. 

A dog is believe to be unaccounted for.

Police have sealed off the area while Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service deal with the blaze and police investigations take place.