A warning has been issued after fire destroyed part of a house near Helston ast night.

A 999 call was made just before 7pm by the owners of a bungalow in Rosudgeon who found their kitchen on fire.

Firefighters from Penzance and Hayle arrived in Trevean Lane to find the room "well alight," according to a fire service spokesperson.

They put out the blaze with a hose reel before removing a tumble dryer and washing machine from the bungalow.

The crews stayed on to check for hotpots.

The fire service spokesperson said: "Tumble dryers and washing machines contain powerful motors with fast moving parts that get very hot.

"If you do not clean and maintain your machine, excess fluff or lint can build up over time and catch fire."

The incident has prompted a warning from the fire service over how to stay safe when using such a equipment.

Remember to: • Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your dryer.

• Never leave your appliance unattended or running overnight.

• Never overload your washing machine or dryer or put items in that have been used to soak up flammable liquids.

• Keep your dryer well ventilated ensuring the vent pipe is kink free, not blocked or crushed in any way.

• Clean the filter in your dryer after every use.

• Have your dryer serviced regularly by a qualified engineer.

The fire service also said not to ignore the warning signs: • Does your tumble dryer smell of burning?

• Are your clothes taking longer to dry?

• Do the clothes feel hotter at the end of the cycle?

• Does the external vent flap stay shut when the dryer is on?

If you notice any of the above, clean the filter and check the vent pipe immediately.