The parents of tragic blaze hero Alex Kent and the brother he tried to save spoke today of their loss.

Richard and Janet Kent said words could not convey what they felt as they spoke to reporters for the first time since yesterday's fire at their home in Crowborough.

Off-duty firefighter Alex, 25, was trying to rescue his brother Philip, 23, from the burning home in Fermor Way, having already led his parents to safety.

Both brothers perished in the fire, attended by Alex's colleagues from Crowborough fire station who tried desperately to resuscitate him.

Today in a joint statement, Mr and Mrs Kent said: "Over the past 48 hours we have endured what must be every parent's nightmare.

"The fire that took hold of our home on Wednesday morning came as a total shock and has left us with nothing.

"Despite the best efforts of emergency crews and neighbours the fire claimed the lives of our two wonderful sons, Philip and Alexander.

"No words can explain the total sense of loss we feel and we take this opportunity to thank members of the media for leaving us alone in our grief at this time.

"Our family is being a tremendous support to us and we would wish to thank all wellwishers for their kind thoughts and tributes to the boys."

An East Sussex Fire Brigade spokesperson said funeral arrangements were being made.

He said: "Should anybody wish to show their commemoration, a book of condolence is now open for signing at Crowborough Town Hall. Flowers may be delivered to Crowborough fire station."