AN Evesham pensioner has thanked firefighters for saving his dog from a kitchen fire.

Dennis Scott, aged 71, of Burford Gardens, lives alone with his four-year-old cocker spaniel, Cassie.

He went shopping on October 24 and returned to find that his kitchen had been damaged by fire, which started when he accidentally left a pan to boil on an electric hob.

But he was most concerned for Cassie's safety and was relieved when the Evesham firefighters told him she had been rescued.

"I am glad that they got here so soon and extremely appreciative that they rescued my dog," said the pensioner.

"Cassie is my companion, I would have been extremely sad if she had died in the fire. The kitchen is immaterial."

Evesham fire station sub officer John Lawrie said: "People shouldn't leave pans on to boil unattended. If you're going to cook something, make sure you are always in attendance."

There were no smoke alarms in Mr Scott's flat and they were fitted by the fire brigade last Thursday.