A MAN was dragged from a burning house in Witney today.

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 was sure there was someone inside the terraced house.

Firefighters forced their way into the house – which was heavily smoke-logged – and dragged the unconscious 31-year-old man out.

They gave him first aid and oxygen before he was taken to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital by ambulance.

The fire was caused by 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.”

South Central Ambulance spokesman James Keating-Wilkes said the man regained consciousness by the time he reached hospital.

He added his condition was not life-threatening.