Blaze not thought to be suspicious

Scotland Yard said the families of the women who died have been told and that the cause of the blaze does not appear to be suspicious.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said:

"It is believed that two women died within the building; next of kin are aware.

"At this early stage the fire is not believed to be suspicious and inquiries continue by officers from Greenwich CID and London Fire Brigade."

The five people who were taken to hospital remain in a stable condition, the force said.

London Fire Brigade said three women and two men had left the building before crews arrived, and were taken to hospital.

The fire severely damaged the ground and first floor of the building, and half of the roof.