An unattended candle started a fire which destroyed a bedroom in an Ashford house.

Fire crews were called to Otterden Close in Stanhope just after 3pm yesterday.

The first floor room was well alight when they arrived and they entered the house wearing breathing apparatus.

Watch Manager Jim Smart said: "It appears a candle had been left burning and this set light to the room which was then completely destroyed and half of the first floor was also damaged by fire.

"However, fortunately no-one was hurt and doors to other rooms were shut which cut down on smoke damage but this is a clear reminder of the dangers of leaving lit candles unattended and how quickly such items can cause a major blaze."

It took 50 minutes to put out the fire.

A positive pressure ventilation fan was used to clear the smoke.

A family living next door to the home were evacuated because of the smoke.