UPDATE - LATEST REPORTS SAY 21 people have died in a fire at a hostel for the homeless in Kamien Pomorski, near Szczecin, north western Poland (photo: tvpinfo).

Twenty one - of whom at least one is in a critical condition - of up to 77 people staying at the hostel were also injured and have been taken to hospital. The injured includes an eight month old baby. Police say they expect the death toll to rise.

Eye witnesses report seeing people jump from windows with children in their arms in a desperate attempt to get away from the flames which swept the building in a matter of minutes. Others saw parents throwing children from windows.  

Government spokesman, Pawel Gras, said that Prime Minister Donald Tusk hurried, by helicopter, to the scene of the fire, which broke out Easter Sunday night. The PM arrived at the scene at 11.00 CET, Monday.

Police psychologists, investigators and a prosecutor are at the scene of the fire which has now been brought under control, said a representative of the local fire station. 

President Lech Kaczynski has pronounced three national days of mourning, starting Tuesday. The head of state, currently at his country residence in Jarata, also in northern Poland, is travelling to the scene by car.

The hostel was full of families who are currently homeless. Donations to the families affected by the tragedy can be made via the local Bank PEKAO S.A branch, account number 18 1240 3868 1111 0000 4090 8896.

A special info line has been set up those wanting more information on the dead and injured: tel.: 00 48 09) 382 05 35. (pg)

source: PAP/TVP Info

Last updated 22.30 CET