A LATE night fire in the basement of a domestic property was caused by an unattended candle.

Fire crews were called to York Road in Hove at 10.20pm yesterday to deal with the blaze.

Teams from Preston Circus and Hove were quickly able to extinguish the flames.

But the discovery of the source of the fire prompted station manager Paul Coppard to issue a warning to anyone lighting candles in their homes.

He said: “Candles in the home are becoming a more and more popular way to add relaxation to our homes, which has seen a large increase in the number of candle-related incidents.

“Candles mark special occasions and create a special atmosphere.

“They also bring fire into your home, so treat them carefully.”

He encouraged people to make sure candles had been extinguished, particularly before going to bed.

They should always be placed in heat-resistant holders and kept away from materials that might catch fire such as curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.

“Be aware that tea lights get very hot and, without proper holders, they can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath,” Mr Coppard said.

“To avoid accidents, keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.”