Two women who died in Perth hotel fire named as Aberdeen sisters

Police Scotland have confirmed the identity of two women and a man who lost their lives at the New County Hotel in Perth.

They have been named as sisters Donna Janse Van Rensburg, 44, and Sharon McLean, 47, both from Aberdeen. 

38-year-old Keith Russell from Edinburgh was also killed. 

Donna's three-year-old King Charles spaniel Joey, also died in the blaze. 

Both families have asked for privacy at this time. 

The incident occurred shortly after 5am on January 2 at the hotel on County Place. 

The Courier revealed yesterday that 21 improvements were identified in a fire safety audit just three weeks before the fire.

Chief Superintendent Phil Davison said: "Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who died as well as they many people affected by this incident.

"A joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal. 

"I would like to again thank all the emergency service and partner agencies involved as well as the local community for their patience while enquiries are carried out."