DISASTER was averted in Steventon this morning after a kitchen caught fire.

Firefighters were able to quickly douse flames sparked by items on an electric hob, which had been accidentally switched on.

The resident at the house in Fuller Way called 999 after a smoke alarm alerted them and neighbours to the danger at about 9am. 

Incident commander Steve Wright from Didcot Fire Station said: "This is a perfect example of how important a working smoke alarm is.

"If the fire had been burning for longer the consequences could have been far worse."

Crews from Didcot Fire Station went door-to-door in the area today to share advice about fire safety.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service reminded residents to check smoke alarms once a week, not to leave items on top of electric hobs if the cooker is turned on, and not to leave food cooking unattended.