A pensioner had a lucky escape after a scented candle set fire to her home.

Her daughter-in-law discovered the blaze when she came to visit this morning and quickly took the woman, believed to be in her late 80s, outside.

The fire service was called at 8.40am and when they arrived they found the couple outside the home in Quakers Hall Lane, Sevenoaks.

The candle was accidently left burning on the dining room table, melting a reading lamp.

Crew Manager Neil Thornewell from Sevenoaks fire station said: “The house had working smoke alarms but unfortunately the woman, who was hard of hearing, thought it was her alarm clock sounding. It was only when her daughter-in-law stopped by to visit that she became aware of the fire downstairs.

“It is vital that you have the right smoke alarms fitted in your home, so if you know someone who could do with a little extra help to keep safe from fire, show them you care and give us a call on 0800 923 7000. We have alarms designed specifically for the hard of hearing and will come and fit them free of charge.”

Crews wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel to tackle the small fire.

A special fan was then used to ventilate the property.