A man was taken to hospital this morning after suffering smoke inhalation following a flat fire in Surbiton.

At 8.23am, four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Surbiton and Kingston fire stations were called to the third floor of a flat on Claremont Gardens in Surbiton.

The Brigade had the fire under control by 9.13am with fire investigators believing the fire was accidental and involving candles.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "It's really important you never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

"We recommend swapping traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips."

Candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won't be knocked over.
• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
• Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.