A WARNING has been issued after heat from an open fire sparked a fire in the house next door.

Firefighter in Blackburn were called to a property on Bank Hey Road South on Sunday night, to reports of a fire.

Upon arrival it became clear that heat from an open fire had started a blaze in the house next door, through the wall.

A warning to ensure all fire places are in safe and working order has now been issued.

A spokesman said: “Earlier this evening we attended a fire in Bank Hey Rd South where heat from an open fire had started a fire in a neighbouring house.

“Wherever possible chimneys should be lined to prevent heat from escaping from the chimney. We spent around an hour making it safe.”