• Bodies of Perth hotel fire’s victims have been recovered.
• Mr. Russell’s family said he was a “loving father” who will be “greatly missed”.
• An investigation into the cause of the fire at the New County Hotel is ongoing.

Police have identified three person who perished in a hotel fire in Perth. After the blaze on Monday, the bodies of sisters Donna Janse Van Rensburg, 44, and Sharon McLean, 47, all from Aberdeen, and Keith Russell, 38, originally from Edinburgh, were recovered at the New County Hotel.

Mr. Russell was regarded as a “loving father” by his family.

According to Police Scotland, an investigation is ongoing.

Joey, Ms. Van Rensburg’s three-year-old King Charles spaniel, also perished.

Both families have asked for privacy.

In a statement, Mr. Russell’s family said: “Keith was a loving father and loved by all his family. He will be greatly missed.”

Ch Supt Phil Davison said a joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was continuing.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who died as well as the many people affected by this incident,” he said.

“I would like to again thank all the emergency services and partner agencies involved as well as the local community for their patience while inquiries are carried out.”

On January 2, at around 05:10, the alarm was sounded, prompting a massive response from the emergency services. At its busiest, the scene included nine fire appliances, 60 firefighters, and 21 ambulance units.

Two residents of nearby apartments and about 16 hotel guests were evacuated.

The Scottish Ambulance Service provided on-site care to eleven patients.

The three bodies were found during an investigation after the fire was put out about 06:30.

The deputy leader of Perth and Kinross Council, Councillor Eric Drysdale, said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the heartbroken families of Donna, Sharon and Keith.

“On behalf of everyone in Perth and Kinross I send our deepest condolences.”

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