A FIRST floor flat has been left destroyed by a fire that broke out.

Crews from Didcot, Goring and Abingdon fire stations rushed to the scene in Wallingford at about 1.15pm on Wednesday after a report of smoke coming out of the flat.

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All occupants were out of the building before they arrived, as smoke alarms alerted residents to the smoke.

Herald Series: Pictures show the damage caused by the fire. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue ServicePictures show the damage caused by the fire. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Several people were treated for smoke inhalation.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building immediately and brought the fire under control, preventing further damage to the rest of the building.

Incident commander Jon Walker said: “All of the residents of this block were very lucky today, this incident could have had a far more serious outcome.

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"The fire service can’t stress the importance of having a working smoke alarm in your property strongly enough. We also urge everyone that either rents or owns a property to check they are properly insured."

The fire service also thanks South Central Ambulance Service and Thames Valley Police who also assisted in the treatment of the casualties and resolving the incident.

The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental.

Herald Series: Damage caused by the fire. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue ServiceDamage caused by the fire. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Herald Series: Damage caused by fire at flat. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue ServiceDamage caused by fire at flat. Pic by Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

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