A BLAZE broke out in a Clacton home after a candle was left flickering in the bathroom.

Firefighters were called to the house in Langham Drive just before 1am this morning. 

They found the first floor was 30 per cent alight and went to work tackling the flames with hose reel jets.

It was extinguished by 1.20am.

A man managed to escape the house when he became aware of the fire. He suffered smoke inhalation but was otherwise unhurt.

Firefighters checked him over and left him with paramedics.

The Red Cross Victim Support Unit was also called in to talk to the man.

Crews examined the house and found that the fire was caused by a candle which had been left unattended in the bathroom.

It has been recorded as an accident.

Fire chiefs have also issued a warning over candle safety. They advise making sure candles are properly secured, keeping them clear of debris, keeping them in well ventilated rooms, not leaving children alone with lit candles and making sure they are put out at night or when leaving the room.