Identity of burned body will take time

Police would like to speak to anyone who took photographs or video of the fire. Photo / Supplied

Police say it will be some time before a body found in a burnt out caravan over the weekend can be formally identified.

Emergency services were called to the fire at the Waimea Town and Country Club in Richmond, Nelson, about 8pm on Saturday.

Richmond fire chief Ralph Lonsdale said the structure "went up like a rocket".

A body was recovered from the burnt out caravan and a post-mortem examination was expected to be completed today.

However, police said they expected it would be some time before formal identification could be completed.

Nelson police and the Fire Service were hoping to complete their scene investigations today.

The campground is at the rear of a workingman's club and is known to house long-term residents.

Police would like to speak to anyone who took photographs or video of the fire as it may help with the investigation.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Sean Young at Nelson police on (03) 546 3840.

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