A MAN was dragged from a burning building in Witney last night.

Firefighters were called to Thorney Leys, Witney, at 1.23am to reports of a smoke alarm sounding and a smell of burning.

The alarm was raised by the next-door neighbour who believed there may be a someone inside the building.

Firefighters forced their way into the property, which was heavily smoke logged, and dragged an unconscious man from inside.

They gave him first aid and oxygen before he was taken to hospital by South Central Ambulance Service.

The cause of the fire was found to be a pan left unattended on the hob.

Crew manager Chris Hollis from Witney Fire Station said: “A working smoke alarm and quick thinking by neighbours undoubtedly saved the man’s life, however this incident could easily have had tragic consequences.

"I would like to remind everyone of the dangers of leaving cooking unattended, especially late at night and of the benefits of fitting a smoke alarm and ensuring it is tested regularly.”