PEOPLE cosying up around the fire in the coming months had a chance to look at the devastating aftermath of a chimney fire.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service are in the CrownGate Shopping Centre in Worcester until Tuesday, showing their Burnt Room demonstration.

The simulated room is black and charred and littered with debris.

It is a life-like reconstruction of the aftermath of a fire-hit living room.

Fire safety officers are hoping people who see the dramatic demonstration will sit up and take notice of safety advice such as having chimneys swept, getting smoke alarms fitted and checking alarms are working as a matter of routine.

For more advice visit the fire service’s website at hwfire.org.uk