THE three victims of a horror hotel fire in Perth have been named by police as two sisters and a father. 

Donna Janse Van Rensburg, 44, and Sharon McLean, 47, both from Aberdeen and Keith Russell, 38, from Edinburgh died in the blaze at the New County Hotel earlier this week.

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

Both families have asked for privacy at this time.

Mr Russell’s family has released the following statement: “Keith was a loving father and loved by all his family. He will be greatly missed.”

The incident happened just after 5am on Monday at the hotel in County Place.

Chief Superintendent Phil Davison said: “Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who died as well as the many people affected by this incident.

“A joint investigation with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

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