TWO bodies recovered from the burnt-down flats at Rowe Court have been removed and taken to hospital, police have confirmed.

Post-mortems are expected to take place this week with the hope being that formal identification can take place.

It is understood the identities of the deceased will be revealed once this “difficult” process is complete.

READ MORE: Reading man describes jumping from Rowe Court flats

Thames Valley Police said the site remains part of a crime scene and work to dismantle the building is still ongoing.

A fire engulfed the flats at the end of Rowe Court in the early hours of December 15, 2021.

Two people were declared dead following the blaze.

Hakeem Kigundu, 31, was accused of murder and arson six days after the incident.

Superintendent Steve Raffield, local area policing commander for Reading, said: “I know that today has been a very difficult and emotional day for a lot of people connected to this incident, especially for the families of the deceased.

“I am pleased that following such a long and complex recovery process that we have been able to safely remove those who were inside, and I hope that this is some comfort to their families.

“Our officers will remain at the scene while our investigation into the fire continues, as well as the process of dismantling the building.

“Anyone with any questions or concerns should feel free to approach our officers and speak to them.

READ MORE: Flats could collapse as investigations into fire continue

“I’d also like to thank all those living nearby for their continued support and patience.”

Jim Powell, Area Manager at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “On behalf of everyone at Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, I would like to extend my thoughts to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives in this tragic incident.

“I know this is an extremely difficult time for those directly affected and people living nearby the incident scene.

“A full fire investigation to determine the cause of the fire is now underway and we will continue to work with partners to resolve this incident as swiftly and as safely as possible.”

Jason Brock, Reading Borough Council leader, said: “The thoughts of everybody in Reading are firmly with the families of those people whose bodies were recovered by our emergency service colleagues earlier today.

“More than six weeks have now passed since the horrific fire at Rowe Court, but for those affected the impact is as real today as it was on December 15. For the families who lost loved ones, it will never pass.

“We once again thank Reading’s emergency services for the dignified recovery in what must have been very distressing circumstances. I know they will be on site for some considerable time yet as teams work to dismantle what is left of Rowe Court. We also thank the local community again for their patience and understanding.

READ MORE: Neighbours pull together to help families of Rowe Court deceased

“The Council continues to work with partners, in particular the property management company and their insurers, to support residents who have been displaced by the fire in any way we can, in both their short-term and long-term needs. The dedicated webpage for people wishing to make a financial donation to them remains open at https://www.reading.gov.uk/rowecourt”

Paul Jefferies, of South Central Ambulance Service, said: “This has undoubtedly has been an extremely upsetting and difficult time for everyone affected. I would like to send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of those who passed away in this devasting incident on behalf of those at South Central Ambulance Service”.