Firefighters rescued 15 snakes from a burning house after a bonfire grew out of control.

Two people and two dogs also escaped unhurt from the "intense" fire, which seriously damaged two homes in Princess Road, Selhurst, yesterday afternoon.

The blaze was caused by an unattended bonfire which spread from a garden, London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.

It badly damaged the ground and first floor of the attached house, from which one man escaped before fire crews rescued the animals.

The blaze spread to the house next door and damaged both floors, although less seriously. An elderly woman fell while fleeing the house and was treated by paramedics as a precaution. 

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Two houses were badly damaged by the fire (photo: London Fire Brigade)

LFB sent crews from Croydon and Norbury stations to the fire after being called at 1.40pm. Firefighters had the flames under control by 3.10pm.

A spokesman said: "When crews arrived they were faced with an intense fire which was affecting two properties. Firefighters saved two dogs and around 15 snakes who were in the house at the time of the fire.

"If you’re having a bonfire at this time of year make sure you never leave it unattended and always keep it away from your home, sheds or fences."