The daughter of a woman who died at the scene of a house fire has spoken of her heartache.

Julia Brown was killed when a fire ripped through her three-storey home in Rectory Road, Broadstairs.

Her daughter Izzy says it has been "a shock to the whole family" and she will "love her forever".

In a Facebook post, Izzy wrote: "I am at a loss of what words are right to say but sadly my mum lost her life last night in a house fire.

"It’s been a shock to the whole family and close friends.

"She will be missed, she has been my rock and I will love her forever.

"If anyone has any enquiries about the funeral wake or something like that then send me a message.

"Please pass this on to anyone who knew her and has not got Facebook as I have no contacts or addresses."

Ms Brown had been a long standing cast member of Margate's Regency Productions.

A post on the Regency Productions Facebook page paid tribute to Ms Brown saying: "It is with a heavy heart that we have learned of the passing of our long standing cast member, Julia Brown yesterday, in a tragic incident.

"Julia jumped into roles after being dragged into the theatre by her friend, Sophia and always brought laughter, fun and joy to everyone she met.

"We will remember you fondly and cherish the memories that we created together."

Neighbours also paid tribute to Ms Brown saying "it's a terrible tragedy".

Neighbour Brendan Martin, a former journalist, spoke of his shock.

"She had lived here for some time but had rented the house out and had moved away and had only come back in the past 18 months or so," he said.

"I have been here about five years so I didn't really know her but others did and they said she was quite quiet, kept herself to herself.

"The road is quite sad - some knew her very well, some didn't.

"We're all a bit shell shocked.

"It's not something you expect will happen in your community, but of course it does."

Another neighbour, who has lived on the road for 18 years, said: "It's a terrible tragedy and such a shame.

"She was quite a character really. It was a beautiful house on the inside too and it was horrendous when the window blew out."

Five fire engines were sent to the house just after 6.30pm Monday.

Fire crews used breathing apparatus, hose reel and main jets to bring the flames under control and prevent the blaze from spreading to neighbouring properties.

Police closed the road while emergency services dealt with the incident.

A report is being prepared for the coroner and investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.