A man has admitted starting a blaze at his own home in Carlisle.

Paul John Sawyers, 48, appeared at the city's crown court today, where he admitted an arson charge following a fire at a two-storey terraced house in Cranbourne Road.

It happened at just before 8am on January 19.

Police and the ambulance service were called to the blaze, along with city firefighters - some of whom wore breathing apparatus as they dealt with the incident.

One man - said to be Sawyers - was reportedly treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken Carlisle's Cumberland Infirmary for a check-up.

During a short court hearing in front of Judge Peter Davies, Sawyers admitted one count of arson, being reckless as to whether the lives of others would be endangered.

The case was adjourned and Sawyers, of Cranbourne Road, was told he is due to be sentenced on March 31.

He was remanded in custody.