RESIDENTS forced to flee their homes during a blaze in a block of Greenock flats will remain temporarily re-housed while safety checks are carried out on the building.

Three people had to be rescued when a fire swept through the block in Neil Street on Saturday morning.

The blaze on the second floor meant that people trapped on the top landing had to be saved.

Police officers investigating the fire today said they are treating it as ‘unexplained’.

Housing association River Clyde Homes (RCH), which owns all of the flats except one, confirmed that they are providing alternative accommodation for the residents.

Jim Snoddy, their specialist services manager, says safety checks must now be carried out before people can get back into their homes.

Mr Snoddy told the Tele: “We are working closely with emergency services and we will follow their advice in relation to this.

“But as soon as more information becomes available, we will advise residents.”

Julie Allison, one call and lettings manager at RCH, added: “We are working closely with Police Scotland to assist with their enquiries.

“We have been in touch with families to support them during this time and assist with temporary accommodation.”

Firefighters were called to the scene of the blaze at around 10.30am on Saturday.

The people rescued from the blaze underwent precautionary checks by paramedics.