FLAMES raged through a South Oxhey flat early on Sunday morning, in a fire that left two adults and a baby needing hospital treatment.

The fire started in the kitchen of the ground floor flat in Pennard House, Oxhey Drive, at about 5.30am.

The cause is thought to have been a faulty fridge.

Two engines attended from Watford fire station, and back-up was called in from Garston and Bushey stations.

Six adults and a baby were rescued from the balcony of the flats.

Residents had retreated to the balconies in order to escape the thick black smoke that filled the ground floor flat and corridor, preventing any exit.

A representative from the fire service issued a reminder to people that they can obtain free smoke detectors and home safety visits.

All residents can contact Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue on freephone 0800 587 3347 for up to two free smoke alarms and to arrange a free home fire safety visit.

Council tenants can update their contact details by telephoning 01923 776611 and asking for their estate officer or the maintenance team.

For full story and pictures see Friday's printed version of the Watford Observer.