One person has died after a fire destroyed a rural home in Caithness.

Three fire crews were scrambled to the blaze at the cottage in Scarfskerry shortly before 8pm on Wednesday.

Police said following "extensive enquiries" they believe the occupant of the house was present during the fire and has died.

Officers have so far been unable to gain access to the property due to the extent of the structural damage, and as yet no body has been recovered.

Local area Inspector Nick Clasper said: "We have been conducting extensive enquiries at the property where the fire occurred, which has been considerably damaged as a result.

"Additionally we have been making enquiries in the local community as well as with next of kin further afield to try to establish whether the occupant of the property was elsewhere at the time of the fire.

"Unfortunately, as a result of our extensive enquiries today, it would appear that the occupant was within the property at the time of the fire.

"Due to the extensive structural damage and uncertainty of the building, gaining access to the property will take some considerable time. Structural engineers will advise when it will be safe to enter the property.

"Enquiries into the cause of the fire are continuing with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to establish the full circumstances, however at this stage there does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances.

"Our thoughts at this difficult time are with the family and friends of those involved."