A NEWLY-WED couple died side by side when a blaze ripped through their flat.

A poignant floral tribute to "Daddy" was among those left outside the home where Kaye and Maurice Tooley died.

They were dragged from the property in Wharton Street, South Shields, South Tyneside in the early hours of Sunday.

The blaze, believed to be caused by a discarded cigarette, broke out while they were in bed.

Neighbours said the couple had married just months ago.

Among the touching messages was one from Mr Tooley's daughter, Rachel.

It said: "To Daddy and Kaye, I will always love you both more than anything, I'll never forget you's."

Neighbours said Mr Tooley, 47, and his 25-year-old wife had lived together for about two years, but had only just wed.

They watched in horror as emergency services flooded the street at around 1am, after the woman in the flat below raised the alarm.

Inspector Graham Lockey of South Tyneside Police said: "It would appear to be a tragic accident which resulted in the loss of life for two people.

"At this early stage there are no suspicious circumstances.

"Although the matter is in the hands of the fire investigation officers, it would appear to be the result of a discarded cigarette in the kitchen.

"It serves as a reminder to people, as it led to the death of the couple who, at the end of the day, have gone to bed and been killed by fire. It is tragic."