CHILDREN are being warned not to play with fire following a blaze at a house in Evesham.

Firefighters, called to the terrace house in Edward Street just after 11.30am on December 15, said the flames took hold after three children started playing with matches in an upstairs bedroom.

Sub officer Mel Turbutt said that although there was no smoke detector, one of the children raised the alarm and the mother got all three children out of the house. They were shocked but unharmed.

Two fire engines, police and an ambulance attended the scene and four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus put out the flames.

"It was quite a serious fire," said sub officer Turbutt. "The fire seriously damaged the first floor."

He added that smoke had also got into the attic and caused damage to the houses on either side.

Neither the householder nor the neighbours wished to comment.

Evesham's station officer Steve Fellows said: "Every year the fire brigade comes into contact with someone who has had their Christmas ruined because of a fire which could have been avoided."

He urged people to fit smoke detectors and take care when hanging decorations or placing candles.

Fairy lights and other electrical appliances used at Christmas were also worth double-checking, he warned.

Station officer Fellows also urged people to remember that large amounts of wrapping paper and other combustible refuse in the house increased the risks.