A TERRIFIED family including three children were at home when a giant oak tree fell on to their house.

The tree caused serious damage to their home - but luckily the family of five managed to escape unharmed.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service evacuated two neighbouring properties and tree surgeons and structural engineers were called to remove the giant trunk and make sure the houses were safe.

A spokeswoman for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: "We were called to reports that a large oak tree had fallen on to a house at 12.30pm. On arrival it was clear it had caused sever damage. There were no injuries but a family of five were displaced.

"Two neighbouring properties were also evacuated.

"The Red Cross was also requested to help."