WYRE Forest firefighters were called out to tackle a severe house fire in Astley in the early hours of this morning.

The crews were called to the house fire in Sandhampton, Astley, at around 2.20am this morning (Thursday, May 26).

Stuart Crebbin, station commander, said: "Upon arrival the fire crews were faced with a severe house fire.

"Thankfully the occupier had managed to escape before our arrival and was led to safety by a neighbour.

"Fire crews worked hard with other emergency services to bring the fire under control and to prevent it from spreading to a neighbouring property.

"The cause of the fire is being investigated and is currently believed to have started in the kitchen.

"There is nothing to suggest any suspicious circumstances at this time."

Three fire engines from Wyre Forest attended the incident along with a water carrier from Ledbury and an aerial ladder platform from Worcester.

West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service and the British Red Cross were also in attendance.

Mr Crebbin urged people to fit a working smoke alarm on every level of their home and ensure that they are tested on a weekly basis.