The fire service has issued a warning after being called out to the first chimney fire of autumn.

Darwen crews were called this afternoon to Cemetery Road in the town, spending 20 minutes extinguishing the blaze.

Following the call, they have spoken of the importance of getting chimneys checked and swept in preparation for winter.

On social media, Darwen fire station said: “First chimney fire of Autumn attended by the crew this lunchtime.

“A gentle reminder for everyone to have your chimneys checked and swept in preparation for a lot of use this winter.”

While, speaking about the earlier incident, the fire service said: “At 1.10pm on September 26, one fire engine from Darwen attended a chimney fire in Cemetery Road, Darwen.

“Firefighters used a bow and aqualader pack to extinguish the fire. Crews were in attendance for 20 minutes.”