A man who left his toaster on and unattended set his kitchen on fire in Rainham on Wednesday night.

Firefighters from Wennington and Dagenham stations were called to the blaze at Annabelle Court in New Road around 8.30pm.

Due to difficulties ventilating the top floor flat, the crews spent around half an hour putting it out.

They then spoke to the man’s neighbours, giving safety advice to residents in the area.

Wennington watch manager Narinder Dail said: “He did the right thing, he shut the doors and dialled 999 and informed his neighbours.

“He had a smoke alarm as well, so that was going off.

“No one was hurt in the incident.”

For a free fire visit from the fire brigade to for a home safety check call 0800 028 4428.