AN investigation has been launched by fire and police officers after a house fire in Hartford on Friday.

Two pumps went to Stones Manor Lane at 3.30am after the occupant, believed to be a man in his late 40s, raised the alarm.

Firefighter Steve Tucker said: "By the time we arrived the fire was well developed on the ground floor.

"We believe it started in the kitchen and spread to the hallway. The whole house was affected.

"All the doors were open."

Firefighter Tucker said there had been no smoke alarms fitted and appealed to residents to take advantage of the free home safety visits which the fire service offers.

He said: "This is the message we are trying to get out.

"This house wasn't fitted with one. If it had been the alarm could have been raised sooner."

If anyone wants to have a free home safety visit, they should ring 01606 868700.