A man has been charged with murder over the death of a woman who had been found fatally stabbed after a gas explosion at her home in north-east London.

The Metropolitan Police said Clifton George, 44, has been charged with the murder of Annabel Rook.

The force said George of Dumont Road, Stoke Newington, had been charged on Sunday with the murder of Rook.

He was also charged with arson with intent to endanger life.

Annabel Rook co-founded an arts charity which supported refugees and survivors of violence

Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Brittany Clarke, of the Metropolitan Police, said: "Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Annabel as they navigate this devastating loss.

"We ask that the public refrain from speculation and respect their privacy at this time, and we thank the Hackney community for their ongoing support."

Two children were also taken to hospital following the incident, but were not believed to have been inside the property at the time of the gas explosion.

Six fire engines and about 40 firefighters were called to the property.