FOUR people were rescued by firefighters after a blaze ripped through a neighbouring property and into their house.

The fire broke out at a derelict house in Duckett Street, Burnley, just before 7.50am yesterday and spread through the roof into the house next door. A woman and three men, all in their 20s, were taken to Burnley General Hospital suffering from effects of smoke inhalation.

Sub Officer Peter Kelly said: "Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were sent into both properties to search the two houses. We had to kick in the back door to gain entry to the house to help get the four people to safety. They were all taken to hospital after suffering from smoke inhalation."