The family of a "kind and caring" mum-of-three have paid tribute to her following her death in a fire.
Emergency services attended the blaze on Saint Thomas Street North in Oldham on Saturday (June 24) afternoon but despite their best efforts Sadia Shafiq, 42, was declared dead at the scene.
Her 15-year-old daughter was taken to hospital and remains in a critical condition.
Sadia's grieving loved ones said in a statement released through Greater Manchester Police: “We as a family have been devastated by the loss of Sadia and our hearts are broken.
“She was a beloved mother and sister and a friend to many. She was caring and the light of all our lives and will be deeply missed by all.
“We will never come to terms with our loss but we thank the local community who have come together and supported us during this difficult time.”
Sadia’s family have asked for privacy whilst they grieve and did not wish for a photo of her to be released.
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service were called to the fire at around 4pm.
One neighbour told the Manchester Evening News how he and another resident broke down the back door of the home but were beaten back by the heat and smoke from the inside.
He added: “It had spread along the houses, we were just trying to get people out.
"The firefighters were telling everyone to move back as people were just filming."
Chief Inspector Robert MacGregor said at the time: “On behalf of GMP, I send condolences to the loved ones of the woman who has sadly died.
"Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire and they will be kept updated.
“A number of residents remain displaced from their homes but have been provided with alternative accommodation by Oldham Council.
“We are working with partner agencies to get them back into their homes as safely and soon as possible.”
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) added searches had been made of four homes in and around the area.
GMFRS group manager for Bolton and Wigan Jean-Pierre Helliwell said: “The thoughts and deepest condolences of everyone at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are with the family, friends and loved ones.
“Our crews remain at the scene at this time and are working extremely hard to extinguish the fire.
“We’re making use of all our available resources to bring the fire under control.
“I’d also like to thank Greater Manchester Police, North West Ambulance Service and our other partner agencies for their continued help.
“We’re incredibly saddened by the news."
