Fire investigators have uncovered an unusual cause of a fire in Malmesbury, which they believe was caused by a dog.

Investigators believe that the dog started the fire after accidentally turning on a hob in the house.

It is thought that the dog was jumping up to get a plastic bowl which was left on the side.

Fire services were called to a house in Athelstan Road around 5pm on Wednesday, December 12, but upon arrival the fire had already gone out.

A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The cause of the fire was a plastic dog bowl left on the hob. It is believed the dog accidentally turned on the hob by jumping up to it.

“Fortunately, the fire was out on arrival so crews then ventilated the property.

“The Fire Service would advise it is best not to leave any combustibles on a heat source and always ensure to have working smoke alarms to enable early detection to a fire.”