This lucky hamster escaped with his life after firefighters rescued him - and almost 40 companions - from a burning house.

They found the animals running around the house in Dudley Road, Eastbourne, while a fire raged on the ground floor.

Seventeen animals in cages were rescued and taken to St Annes veterinary practice in St Anne's Road, Eastbourne.

One animal died after being overcome by smoke. The pets' owner was taken to the District General Hospital but later discharged.

Vet Raymund Bouwman said: "The hamsters all received treatment and sadly one of them died. They were all a bit stressed after their ordeal but they do not seem to be too badly off."

RSPCA officers collected the animals and took them to the Patcham Animal Centre, near Brighton.

Firefighters managed to rescue the creatures while bringing the fire under control. The cause of the blaze is still being investigated by fire officers.

A spokesman for Eastbourne fire station said: "We couldn't quite believe it really. We found one sitting on a pile of food quite happily munching away."

A 61-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of causing arson with intent to endanger life. He is currently helping police with their inquiries.