A WASHING machine fault caused a blaze in Abingdon today.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to a flat in Springfield Drive at 9.50am.

One woman was given first aid by firefighters at the scene before paramedics arrived.

The fire, which was started by a fault in a washing machine within the kitchen, caused smoke damage to the entire flat.

Incident commander, watch manager Kevin Kerry said: “In this instance the occupier discovered the fire just before the smoke alarm, and did exactly the right thing by getting out, staying out and calling the fire service out. 

"We urge all residents to ensure they have a working smoke alarm on each level of their home and check them weekly, as they are a proven to give lifesaving early warning.”

Firefighters from Abingdon and Rewley Road, Oxford, extinguished the blaze and prevented further smoke and fire damage to neighbouring properties.

Staff from the British Red Cross emergency response team also arranged shelter for the resident for tonight.