A 999 operator spent six minutes on the phone persuading the occupants of a burning building to leave the property.

The drama in Par last night (January 6) has led to a warning from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service about how quickly fires can develop.

Crews from Fowey and St Austell were sent to the property in Upper Eastcliffe Road shortly after 8.30pm.

They found the fire in the first floor bedroom of a semi-detached property had set the roof well alight, and quickly summoned reinforcements.

More firefighters from St Austell, Mevagissey and Lostwithiel plus specialist appliances battled the blaze using four breathing apparatus and three main jets until shortly before midnight.

Firefighter (Control) Todd Hollyoake said: ‘We understand any incident like this is traumatic and upsetting to all those affected.

‘The caller stated that they were not out of the property. I instructed them to get out immediately.

‘It was a further six minutes before the occupants made their way out of the building.

‘This has been the second call in recent weeks where the occupants were still inside the property.

‘It is absolutely vital for occupants to realise how quickly fires can develop and how rapidly you can become overcome by smoke.

‘When a fire starts in your home, your priority must be to get out, stay out and call 999.’