This is what can happen if you burn rubbish in the garden

The photograph shows the devastation caused last week when a rubbish blaze got out of hand and spread to four neighbouring houses.

The incident needed six fire crews to bring the flames under control and caused severe damage to the properties in Sycamore Close, Lancaster.

Posting the image on social media, a Lancaster Fire Station spokesperson said: "Last week @lancaster_fire and five other fire engines attended a fire in Lancaster which was caused by burning rubbish in the garden.

"We know tips are closed but please don't burn rubbish. The affects could be more devastating than you realise."

The blaze broke out at around 5.20pm on May 1. It took six appliances from Lancaster, Morecambe, Bolton-le-Sands and Carnforth, together with an aerial ladder platform from Preston, more than three hours to fully extinguish.

One house was well alight when crews arrived and the fire had already spread to a further three properties. A detached garage and 70-metres of fencing were also badly damaged.

And two more houses were affected by smoke.

One casualty was taken to hospital by paramedics after inhaling smoke.