FIRE tore through the Bangor home of an elderly couple after they became 'distracted' from their cooking.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service was called to the incident on Upper Garth Road just before 8.40pm on Sunday.

Crews from Bangor, Caernarfon and Menai Bridge arrived at the scene as flames already began to engulf the property.

The couple were able to escape after their fire alarm alerted them to smoke billowing from their kitchen, the fire service said.

Mike Owen, the fire service's response manager, said the incident shows the importance of a working fire alarm.

“We’re all so relieved that the couple were able to escape safely," he said. "Smoke alarms activated, and they were able to get out of the house to safety.

"Having working smoke alarms and a practiced escape route is so important to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

“Our firefighters have worked extremely hard to get the fire under control as quickly as possible – my thanks go to them all.

“Please don’t be tempted to leave cooking unattended and take care in the kitchen - it’s so easy to get distracted.

“I’d ask everyone to consider elderly or vulnerable family or neighbours, and ensure they are safe too, with working smoke alarms fitted on every floor of their home."