POLICE have given an update in their murder investigation after a man died in a Hereford house fire.

A 30-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 33-year-old man died in a blaze in Charles Witts Avenue on July 4.

The victim was found to have suffered "serious injuries" and confirmed dead at the scene, West Midlands Ambulance Service said. A woman, who was also found, was later taken to hospital suffering from the effects of smoke.

The woman, 56, was being treated at Hereford County Hospital. 

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But police have now said that the criminal investigation has been dropped and a report will be prepared for the coroner. A spokesperson said: "Following extensive enquiries and postmortem results, there will be no further criminal investigation in relation to this matter and it will be referred to HM Coroner.  The suspect previously arrested has been released from police bail and no further action will be taken against him in relation to this matter."

Detective Inspector Catherine Taylor said at the time that the death was being treated as suspicious and an investigation had been launched.

"At this time all lines of inquiry are being explored. Our thoughts are with the man's family at this difficult time."