FIREFIGHTERS pleaded with residents to have chimneys swept at least once a year after tackling a blaze at a Fenland village home.

Crews from Wisbech and Dogsthorpe in Peterborough were called to Long Drove, Murrow, on Saturday afternoon to a chimney fire.

They used chimney gear to extinguish the blaze and were at the scene for about three hours.

A fire service spokesman said in a statement: “Chimney fires are all too common at this time of year, and can be prevented by regularly inspecting the chimney for blockages and cracks, which can easily cause a fire to start.

“You should have your chimney swept at least once a year.”