A house fire started by a candle on Sunday afternoon could and should have been avoided, a senior firefighter has said.

Fire crews were called to Maldon Road at about 4.45pm after flames spread to drying clothing in the front room.

Three people, who tried and failed to contain the flames, were forced to flee the property and call the fire service.

Watch commander Derek Macleod, from Watford Fire Station, warned: “This fire was caused by the misuse of candles and the people involved had a lucky escape.

“It was fortunate they discovered the fire when they did but this could have been avoided.

“In the run up to Christmas people will start putting up decorations and lighting more candles. It’s important to remember that the two don’t mix very well.”