A woman was burnt putting out a fire believed to have been caused by an unattended candle in the early hours of Boxing Day.

The small blaze, at a flat in Addison Road, Tunbridge Wells, just after 2am, prompted firefighters to warn people to think about where they place candles, particularly at this time of year.

A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "KFRS always advises people to be extra vigilant with candles, especially at this time of year. Always use a candle holder on a non-flammable surface where it can’t be knocked over.

"Don’t place candles close to curtains, bedding or Christmas decorations that could catch fire, or on window sills or the floor. And never leave candles unattended - candles should be put out before going to bed or leaving the property."

Paramedics were also called to the first-floor flat and treated a woman for minor burns.

The KFRS spokesman continued: "On arrival, crews found a woman suffering with minor burns after she'd put out the fire that started in her lounge.

"Crews used a fan to ventilate the property. The woman was handed over to paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance Service for treatment for her burns. It is believed the fire was started by an unattended candle."