FIREFIGHTERS have rescued four people from a blaze in Harrogate.

The fire broke out early today in a flat in a converted Victorian house in Dragon View, Skipton Road, Harrogate.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service said the fire was believed to have started in a cupboard housing "A smoke alarm alerted the occupants who then called 999 and were given fire survival advice from the fire control operator as it was soon established that the four residents, all aged late 20s, could not evacuate the premises," said a spokesman.

"On their attendance, within four minutes, firecrews commenced the rescue of the four adults, by placing a triple extension ladder against the exterior of the property, and guiding all four, unharmed, to safety."

He added that the Red Cross Fire and Emergency Support Service attended to provide after-incident support to the affected residents.