A man has been taken to hospital for smoke inhalation after being rescued by fire crews from a third-floor flat fire.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to Claremont Gardens in Surbiton at 8.23am yesterday.

Part of the flat that the man was rescued from in the converted semi-detached house was damaged by the fire.

He was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

Fire investigators believe that the blaze was accidental and involved candles.

The fire was brought under control by 9.13am by firefighters from Surbiton and Kingston fire stations and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Firefighters have issued a candle safety reminder after a flat fire on Claremont Gardens in Surbiton.

“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.”

“Part of a flat on the third floor of a semi-detached house converted into flats was damaged by the fire.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a man from the affected flat.

“He was taken to hospital suffering smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service crews.

“The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was accidental and involved candles.

“The Brigade was called at 0823 and the fire was under control by 0913.

“Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Surbiton and Kingston fire stations were at the scene, along with colleagues from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

“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."