A fire service has reminded people to take care with barbecues after a blaze in a garden that spread to decking, a fence and an aviary.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to a property in Harlow just before 04:00 BST on Sunday.

The aviary had no birds inside at the time and crews “quickly tackled the fire and made the area safe”, a spokesperson added.

Crew manager Catherine Smith said: “Please keep barbecues well clear of fences, sheds and decking, never leave them unattended, and always make sure they’re fully turned off and cooled before you go inside.”