West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's, Command & Mobilising Centre received a call to a terraced property in Newtimber, Muddleswood at 11.58pm.

The neighbour of the property involved in the fire quickly made a 999 call and stated that he could see the occupier inside the building. He then entered the building and successfully rescued her.

Fire crews from Hurstpierpoint and Henfield quickly arrived on the scene and were faced with a severe and well developed fire involving the roof and first floor.

Firefighters were informed that more people may be inside, however a search of the building by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus confirmed that nobody was trapped.

Approximately 40 firefighters from both East and West Sussex, tackled the fire which was brought under control within an hour. The property measuring approximately 22 x 12 metres, suffered 25 per cent fire damage and 25 per cent heat and smoke damage.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation and crews are expected to remain on the scene for some considerable time, damping down and cutting away.

No injuries were reported.