FIREFIGHTERS were called to a fire at a Southampton home last night after an unattended burning candle caught alight.

The St Mary’s crew were called to the property in Lyon Street, St Mary’s, at 10.10pm.

The occupants made their escape in time thanks to a smoke alarm and firefighters were able to prevent the fire spreading from a bedroom.

Red Watch Manager Nigel Mottashed said: “People should never leave candles unattended.

“This incident also shows the benefits of having a smoke alarm which in this case proved invaluable.”