Around 15 firefighters were called to a blaze caused by a halogen spotlight in New North Road.

The fire began in a bedroom on the first floor, which has been slightly damaged by the blaze.

Passers-by raised the alarm after who spotted the fire and alerted the two occupants who left before fire crews arrived. No one was injured.

The fire was caused by a halogen spotlight that was left on too close to a curtain and set it alight.

A spokesman for the London Fire Brigade said: “Halogen spotlights generate a lot of heat and can set fire to curtains if placed close to them and left on.

“Keep halogen spotlights well away from window coverings, such as curtains, blinds and drapes. Keep them well away from bedding, clothing and fabric as well.”

Three fire engines from Ilford and Hainault attended the scene at about 5pm last night and had the blaze under control by 5.45pm.