FIREFIGHTERS had to rescue three people from a flat in Winchester on Wednesday night.

Crews from Winchester and Eastleigh raced to the flat in Cranworth Road, with the bedroom found well ablaze.

Two casualties were rescued by crews and given medical care by South Central Ambulance Service.

A woman from a next-door flat also had to be rescued as the flames and smoke began to spread.

It comes as fire crews issue warnings for residents to be safe during the heatwave – saying that they are struggling to cope with the volume of calls.

One hose reel was used, and ventilation to clear the smoke. Crews left the scene around 7.15pm. A Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Crews from Winchester and Eastleigh were called to a fire in a flat in Cranworth Road, Winchester.

"The fire was contained to the flat's bedroom on the second floor. "Two casualties were rescued by firefighters and given Immediate Emergency Care (IEC), by crews and were then treated by South Central Ambulance Service.

"A female from a neighbouring flat was also rescued. Crews used two sets of breathing apparatus, one hose reel and positive pressure ventilation to clear the smoke logged flats. The stop came in at 19:05."