Firefighters were called to a flat early this morning after peat in a window box self-ignited.

Firemen extinguished the fire at the property in Innes Gardens, near Putney Heath, at 5am this morning.

Wandsworth fire station said the tenants had smelt the burning yesterday afternoon but were shocked to learn peat can self-ignite.

Peat moss is commonly added to soil in plant pots to help retain moisture, but few people are aware it can spontaneously combust in dry conditions.