A MAN was rescued from a burning Oxford flat last night with help from a neighbour and a PCSO.

Firefighters were called to the blaze in Knights Road, Blackbird Leys, at around 6.15pm.

Crews immediately tackled the blaze, in the kitchen of the ground floor flat, using breathing apparatus and high pressure jets.

Other teams searched the property to make sure everyone was safely out of the building.

Neighbours had been alerted by smoke detectors going off in the flat.

Kevin Annely, also of Knights Road, and PCSO Barry Sheehan forced their way in to the flat to perform rescues before firefighters arrived.

The occupant of the flat was treated by South Central Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation at the scene.

Fire fighter Dan Smith said: “Both Mr Annely and Mr Sheehan should be commended for their bravery, thanks to their actions the occupant escaped without serious injury.

"The smoke alarms were key in saving his life as they alerted the neighbours to the fire and this should remind everyone of the importance of ensuring they have working smoke detectors at home – one day it could save your life.”

The fire was caused by cooking being left unattended on the hob.