A CIGARETTE end sparked a fire which caused considerable damage to two homes in Droitwich.

Two fire engines were called to the blaze in Shepherds Rise at 1.10am yesterday.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus had the blaze under control by 1.40am.

There were no injuries, although two children and five adults had to be evacuated.

A fence panel, window frames, fascia boards and guttering on the two houses were damaged.

An investigation into the fire suggested a cigarette end was discarded in a plastic container in the garden which caught alight then spread to the fence panel and then to the back of the two houses.

Crew Commander Chris Jelfs said: “Fortunately the occupant of one of the houses involved was still awake and noticed the smoke before the fire spread any further.

"This incident highlights two important fire safety messages. Firstly, smokers are reminded to ensure that their cigarettes are fully extinguished and that they take care where they dispose of cigarette ends.

“Secondly, the incident underlines how important it is to have a smoke alarm fitted and tested on a regular basis.”

Fire crews ensured both properties had working smoke alarms installed before they left the scene of the incident.