A new year's day fire started by a burning candle nearly led to tragedy when it was reported that one person was trapped and unable to get out.

Fire control received a 999 call at 3.34am on New Year's Day to a property in Lelant Downs near Hayle.

The person calling said there was smoke inside the property and during the 999 call they said their partner was unable to leave due to a health condition.

Two engines from St Ives Fire Station and a station manager from Penzance were immediately sent to the scene.

The call handler remained on the line with the caller for ten minutes until the person inside was able to get out.

Due to the serious nature of the call with one person reported trapped an additional appliance from Tolvaddon was also mobilised.

When the emergency services arrived they saw a fire in the ground floor dining room of the property through the window. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus went into the property to put out the fire supported by the other crews who were also arriving.

A report from the Cornwall Fire service said the cause of the fire was from a candle left unattended and warned people of the dangers of doing so.

"Fire control were called at 03:45 by a person stating there was smoke inside their property," said the report. "Two appliances were mobilised from St Ives Fire Station and a wholetime station manager from Penzance.

"During the 999 call the person stated their partner was unable to leave due to a health condition, therefore the incident was changed to persons reported and an additional appliance was mobilised from Tolvaddon Fire Station.

"The call handler remained on the line with the caller for approximately ten minutes at which point both occupants were able to exit the property."

"On arrival the first appliance reported fire showing from a ground floor window and confirmed all persons were accounted for. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the property to extinguish the fire, supported by crews from the oncoming appliances.

"The fire was accidental and ignition was caused by a candle. For information on how to use candles safely in your home, visit our website for advice on candle safety."

https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire-and-rescue-service/keeping-safe/fire-safety/fire-safety-at-home/candles/