Firefighters brought a soot-covered cat back to life after they rescued him from a blaze in Lewisham.

Half of the ground floor of a terraced house on Ewhurst Road was damaged by the fire.

Two cats had already escaped before crews arrived at 8.30am, but firefighters wearing breathing appartus had to help 'Buttons' out from inside the lounge, who was suffering smoke inhalation. 

The brigade were able to bring him back round with oxygen and his owners then took him to the vet, where he has since been described as "doing well."

Two people left the property before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.

Firefighter Steve Gilbert, who was at the scene, said: "We gave Buttons oxygen for about 10 minutes and he was completely covered in soot, he was quite lucky.

"It was a very well developed fire when we arrived but fortunately the occupants were alerted by the smoke alarms and were able to get out, so this should serve as a reminder about how important it is to have smoke alarms fitted throughout your home."

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Lewisham, Forest Hill, Lee Green and East Greenwich fire stations attended.