A woman escaped a fire at a semi-detached house caused by a candle.

The woman was able to escape the home, on Wales Avenue, Carshalton, before firefighters from Wallington, Sutton and Croydon arrived to tackle the flames last night.

She was treated for mild smoke inhalation.

Half of the first floor of the house was damaged.

Four fire engines and 21 firefighters were called out at 5.59pm and had the fire under control by 7.06pm.

The fire is believed to have been caused by a candle being left unattended.

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire."