A MAN, believed to be a school teacher, was rescued from a blaze which destroyed his terraced house in Springfield Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells.

Firefighters were on the scene within four minutes of being mobilised at 4am on Sunday. Sub Officer Rick Hodge, of red watch, Tunbridge Wells fire station, said: "It was a severe fire. The flames were coming out the door to meet us as we arrived.

One firefighter wearing breathing apparatus attacked the fire while another went in and led the single occupant to safety. He was trapped in a bedroom and lucky to escape with his life."

Mr Hodge added: "We are reasonably certain the fire was started by smoking materials. It severely damaged the property.

"The man, who I understand is a teacher, was shaken but otherwise unhurt. He was helped at the scene by support volunteers and later taken to a hotel."