Firefights rescued four people from the second floor of a hotel after a fire in Croydon.

London Fire Brigade were called just before midnight on Sunday (February 19) to reports of a fire at a hotel on Park Lane.

A small part of a first-floor room in a three-storey hotel was destroyed by the fire.

Around 20 people were evacuated from the hotel before the Brigade arrived.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Croydon, Woodside, Purley and Norbury fire stations attended the scene.

Firefighters rescued four people from the second floor via an internal staircase using smoke hoods and they were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service paramedics.

The blaze is believed to have been accidental and caused by candles.

Firefighters have since issued a candle safety warning.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “It’s really important you never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture, or clothes.

"We recommend swapping traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips."

The fire was under control by 12.46am.

Candle safety tips

  • Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
  • These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.
  • Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
  • Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
  • To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.