A garden patio has been destroyed and a number of flats have been damaged after a fire broke out in Streatham.

Firefighters were called to a flat fire on Mount Ephraim Road in Streatham Hill just after 10pm last night (August 8).

Part of a five-roomed flat on the lower ground floor of a residential block was damaged by the fire.

Three flats across the ground, first and second floor were also damaged by the blaze.

An external patio to the back of the flats was destroyed by the fire.

Firefighters believe the fire was accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

There were no reports of any injuries, and the fire was under control by 11.21pm.

The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers took 17 calls to the blaze.

Four fire engines and 25 firefighters from Norbury, Tooting and West Norwood fire stations attended the scene.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “We’d rather you didn’t smoke at all, but if you are a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it.

“If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.”

A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade: “Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a flat fire on Mount Ephraim Road in Streatham Hill.

“Part of a five-roomed flat on the lower ground floor of a residential block was damaged by fire.

“Part of three further flats on the ground, first and second floors of the building were also damaged by the blaze and an external patio to the rear of the property was destroyed.

“There were no reports of any injuries.

“The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers took 17 calls to the blaze.”