A house was wrecked in a fire which was caused by an electric blanket catching alight.

The property in The Ride, Ifold, near Billingshurst, was nearly totally gutted after the blaze broke out shortly after 11pm last night.

Four fire engines were at the scene for more than two hours.

A spokesman said 100% of the roof was damaged by fire and 80% of the rest of the house was ruined by smoke.

He added: β€œIt was started accidentally.”

No one was trapped in the house which was believed to have been occupied by elderly people.

They were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.