The man accused of murdering a “beautiful” mother and three children in an “arson attack” on a Bradford house is the ex-partner of someone who was visiting, police have confirmed.

Bryonie Gawith, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene of the fire on Wednesday morning, while her two daughters, nine-year-old Denisty Birtle and 22-month-old Aubree Birtle, and her son Oscar Birtle, five, died later in hospital.

The devastated family paid tribute to the mother and children, describing Bryonie as a ‘joyful, bubbly, beautiful woman’.

Police have now confirmed that the man arrested on suspicion of murder is the ex-partner of someone who visited the house.

West Yorkshire Police said: ‘Due to speculation online about the fire we would like to address some rumours.

Bryonie Gawith, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene, while her two daughters, nine-year-old Denisty and 22-month-old Aubree, and her son Oscar Birtle, five, died later in hospital.

A child’s car seat can be seen lying among soot and burnt wooden panels on the grass

Tributes were paid to victims (left to right) Oscar, Aubree and Denisty Birtle

A view of the scene where the fire broke out in the early morning hours of Wednesday

Fire can be seen coming from the house in Bradford during the tragic incident

‘A 39-year-old man was arrested on the spot on suspicion of murder. This man is the ex-partner of a woman who was visiting family.

“He is still in critical condition in hospital.”

Tributes have already been pouring in for Bryonie, with loved ones saying: ‘Our B was the life of the party, music played a huge part in her life, she loved music, singing and dancing, she always sang and danced with Chuch, Oggy and Strawberry (the children).

‘B was always a very cheerful, happy, bubbly, beautiful woman, who cared for everyone and was loved by everyone. Her children were everything to her, all her life.

‘Oggy had a mischievous smile, he was cheeky but also shy. Strawbs was shy and timid with big blue eyes and blond hair. Chuch was a beautiful, confident, outgoing and creative young girl.

“We are still trying to understand what has happened to our beautiful family. No words can describe how we feel and no words can ever make up for the profound loss we are now facing.”

The family added: ‘We are overwhelmed and grateful for all the support and kind words we have received, but we ask as a family that we can be given the respect and privacy we need to try to process the unimaginable sadness and grief of this tragic loss of our beautiful family.

“Also our thoughts and support to the father of our three babies. Please give him peace to grieve and process the loss of his family.”

The children’s father, Jonathan, also issued a statement last night.

He said: ‘I am devastated by the sudden loss of my fiancée, Bryonie, and our three beautiful children.

‘Bryonie and I were together for a long time and we had a good life together.

‘She was a beautiful woman and a loving mother to Oscar, Aubree and Denisty.

“I loved them with all my heart and if I had the chance, I would take their place in a heartbeat. I can’t imagine life without them. They will never be forgotten and will always be in my heart.”

Photos show items strewn around the garden of the Bradford home

Police and firefighters at the scene after officers were called to reports of a fire at a property in Westbury Road, Bradford at 2.07am

People laid flowers at the scene of a house fire in Bradford that killed a woman and three children

Emotional tributes were left for the three young children who died in the tragic fire

Bryonie and her three children died after their home on Westbury Road was deliberately set on fire, West Yorkshire Police said.

Specialist officers continue to support the family, including Bryonie’s partner Jonathan.

Anyone who can assist with the police investigation is asked to contact them on 101 or use the live chat function https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat, quoting log 107 of 21 August.

You can also pass on your information anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.