Two people have been carried from a burning house by firefighters.

Fire crews rushed to York Road, Canterbury, at about 9.45pm yesterday after the blaze broke out.

Two fire engines were sent to the scene, and crews arrived to find the first floor of the property on fire.

A spokesman said: "Two occupants were carried out to safety, before being passed into the care of South East Coast Ambulance for precautionary checks."

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used jets of water to extinguish the flames - which is believed to have spread accidentally from discarded smoking materials.

The blaze was put out by 10.45pm.

The fire service has issued a warning to smokers following the incident.

A spokesman said: "Crews would like to remind anyone who smokes to only dispose of them once they're fully cooled.

"If you smoke and you’re not ready to quit, we also urge you to smoke outside - it can help you stay more focused, and more alert.

"Remember, always stub smoking materials out in an ashtray and only throw in a bin once cold."

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