Neighbours have tried in vain to save a woman from a burning home in Sydney’s southwest.

Emergency services were called to Magnolia Place, Macquarie Fields shortly before 1am on Sunday, where a single-level brick and tile house was engulfed in flames.

NSW Police said in a statement a 45-year-old woman had managed to escape the blaze and tell neighbours her mother was still inside.

“Two men attempted to enter the home by kicking in the back door but were unsuccessful,” NSW Police said.

The body of a woman, believed to be in her 70s, was found in the kitchen after the fire had been extinguished.

NSW Ambulance treated five people at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Authorities say the house was completely destroyed, and crime scene officers and fire investigators will examine the site Sunday.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.