FIRE chiefs have issued a safety warning after a candle was the suspected cause of a property blaze in Chagford over the weekend.

A fire crew arrived at the address in Orchard Meadow to find a charred chair which they removed outside for safety.

It emerged that the likely cause of Saturday morning’s drama was a candle.

A fire spokesman afterwards urged people to make sure any candles used in the home were housed in fire-resistant holders well away from any materials which may catch fire.

And they should never be placed under shelves or in enclosed spaces.

All should be extinguished when the room is vacated - and should never be allowed to burn down to the holder.