A CANDLE left burning on a religious shrine sparked a fire in the garage on a residential estate early today.

Two pumps from Maidstone were called to the burning outbuilding in Alkham Road, Vinters Park, Maidstone, at about 5am.

The candle, left burning unattended on the religious shrine set light to curtains and other materials, causing about 20 per cent damage to the garage and its contents.

Frefighters from Red Watch dealt with the incident within half an hour. No-one was hurt.

Sub Officer Andy Oliver said: "Naked flames of any description should not be left unattended."