A MAN was taken to hospital after a flat fire caused by a candle left burning overnight.

Three fire engines were called to Devonshire Place, Kemp Town, Brighton, at 7.30am today following reports of a small fire in a second-floor flat. 

Police also attended the scene after it was feared there were people still in the flat. 

The fire was extinguished and a ventilation fan was used to clear smoke from the building. 

Sussex Police said it was later discovered no one was still in the flat and the occupant had left a candle burning overnight.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue said one man was taken to hospital as a precautionary measure.