Magnifying glass reflecting sun starts fire

The magnifying glass on the bedside table was in direct sunlight

Sunlight reflecting from a magnifying glass ignited a set of curtains, a fire service said.

Crews were called to a home in Brick Kiln Lane, Rickling Green, Saffron Walden, at about 16:00 GMT on Tuesday.

They found curtains on fire in a bedroom.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service watch manager Neil Byford said: "The occupants had a magnifying glass on the bedside table."

He added: "This incident shows how easy it is for magnifying or reflective objects to cause fires, even in winter when we don't think the sun is that strong.

"Make sure mirrors or glass or crystal objects on your window sills, dressing tables - or anywhere else in your home - are out of direct sunlight."