Firefighters saved 10 rabbits and 10 pet birds before a house was destroyed by fire yesterday.

It is not yet known what caused blaze at the two-storey property in Sand Lane, Frittenden.

The property’s elderly resident also managed to escape the fire which happened at about 4.15am before crews arrived.

She is currently recovering in Maidstone Hospital after suffering smoke inhalation.

Crews from Cranbrook, Headcorn, Tenterden, Marden and a water unit from Ashford spent nearly three hours tackling the fire.

They battled to prevent flames spreading to a nearby shed which housed the resident’s pets.

The animals have now been put into the care of neighbours.

An investigation into the cause of the blaze has been launched.