A man is lucky to be alive after fire ripped through his flat.

He received treatment for burns following the blaze in Denny Close, Selsey, at 1.35am today.

The fire brigade was called by neighbours who heard a smoke alarm in the communal foyer.

Selsey firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control with the help of neighbouring fire crews.

West Sussex Fire Service said there was no smoke alarm in the flat and the three occupants had a narrow escape.

The cause is under investigation but is thought to have been an unattended candle.

West Sussex Fire Service reminded householders not to leave candles unattended and to fit a working smoke alarm.