Firefighters issue warning after candle sparks blaze

A mother and her children have been forced to leave their home after it was damaged during a fire.

It was caused by flames spreading from a candle next to a bed in the Moulsham area of Chelmsford on Wednesday evening.

Crews were called to the affected flat and found its sprinkler system had already extinguished the fire, but the water damage has meant the family cannot currently live there.

Chelmsford watch manager Mark Curtis said candles should always be kept "well away from bedding, curtains and anything else that could catch fire".

He urged people to "remember to put candles out before leaving the room or going to bed, and never leave them burning unattended".

"If you enjoy the glow of a candle, battery-operated ones are a safer alternative."

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