People in Sutton are being warned about lighting candles at Christmas after more than 200 fires were caused by them in London last year.

Sutton Council has joined the London Fire Brigade (LFB) in cautioning residents about the popular festive tradition as December 25 draws ever-nearer.

Although they create a nice warm glow, they need to be used with care, and candles are said to be one of the most common causes of fires.

More than 230 blazes in the capital were connected with candle use, according to statistics from the fire brigade, but tips have been made available to help increase safety.

Philip Morton, the LFB’s Sutton Borough Commander at Wallington fire station, said: “Always make sure candles, incense and oil burners are put out completely and never left unattended.

“They should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.

“Tea lights get very hot and without proper holders they can melt through plastic surfaces such as TVs.”

LED tea lights are said to be a safer alternative because they’re safe even safe even if you forget to blow them out and later fall asleep.

For more fire safety advice, you can visit www.london-fire.gov.uk