A man was taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and possible burns following a fire in Carlisle early this morning.

Crews from the city's east and west stations were called to the semi-detached property, on Merith Avenue, Botcherby at around 2.45am.

A spokesman for Carlisle East station said that when crews arrived, the blaze was "serious".

He said: "It was in a first floor rear bedroom and there was one occupant who was taken to the Cumberland Infirmary for smoke inhalation and potential burns.

"The cause is still under investigation."

He added that crew members will be in the local area carrying out home safety checks and urged residents to ensure that their smoke alarms are in working order.

Four firefighters wore breathing apparatus to tackle the blaze, using two hose reel jets.

The crews were at the scene for around two hours.