Five properties were evacuated in Barnsley last night, after a fire in an outbuilding spread to terraced housing.

Firefighters from Barnsley and Royston fire stations were called to the incident on Bellbank Way, Athersley at 12.19am last night.

The fire in the brick outhouse spread to two properties, causing fire and smoke damage to the roof spaces, eaves and guttering. All occupants had evacuated themselves from the properties.

Three further properties were evacuated for fear of further fire spread, and the occupants did not return to their homes that night.

Because neither house had a working smoke alarm, the alarm was only raised when a young occupier of one of the properties spotted flames.

Firefighters left the scene at 03.02am and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Barnsley firefighters are returning to the area today to carry out home safety checks and fit free smoke alarms. To receive a free home safety check call 0114 2314 or text FREE to 87023

Click here to sign up for our free monthly e-newsletter