As reported in later editions of last night's Evening Times, the 71-year-old woman was found dead following the early morning blaze.

The victim was named locally, though police were not able to confirm her identity.

The alarm was raised around 1.35am yesterday after fire broke out in an 11th floor flat at Sherry Heights in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire.

Fire crews from Clydesmill and Polmadie were quickly on the scene.

Six firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, entered the property and quickly extinguished the blaze.

Following a search of the property, crews discovered the body of the elderly woman.

Investigations were continuing at the 12-storey block, but it is thought the blaze was not suspicious.

There was visible smoke damage around the windows where the fire had broken out towards the side and rear of the building.

However, the blaze did not appear to affect neighbouring properties.

One woman, who did not want to be named, had known her for around 20 years.

She said: "It is very sad to hear what happened. We were friends for a number of years and enjoyed a few holidays together. She lived alone and lately had been suffering from arthritis."

Another woman had called round to see if her boyfriend's grandfather, who lives in the block, was all right.

The woman said: "We heard about the fire this morning. My boyfriend's grandad lives on the eighth floor, but didn't seem to have been affected by it. It's very sad that something like this has happened."

Assistant Chief Officer David Goodhew, of Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of this lady at this time.

"Our investigation section is currently working with colleagues from Strathclyde Police to determine the cause of the fire."

A spokesman for South Lanarkshire Council said: "The council is saddened by the death of a resident at Sherry Heights.

"The council was alerted about the fire in the early hours, which resulted in a number of residents being temporarily evacuated for their safety."