A FAMILY was saved from possible death after an heroic man used a ladder to get them out of their burning home in Woodrow.

The ground floor of a house in Cropthorne Close caught fire after a tumble dryer overheated on Sunday at about 8.30am.

Upstairs was a mother with her two teenage children and another teenager who was visiting.

Simon Guy, who lives in nearby Bushley Close, became aware of the fire and got out a ladder that he propped up next to a window of the house so those inside could get out.

Four fire engines from Redditch and Bromsgrove were called to the incident, where they kicked down the door of a neighbour's house, which was also affected by the flames, to help free the residents there. Pets were also rescued from the burning property.

Four people went to the Alexandra Hospital for check-ups.

Alec Mackie, of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "I would like to commend the quick thinking actions of Simon Guy who helped prevent the incident from becoming a much more serious one."