Firefighters, police and paramedics alerted to a reported property fire discovered a flare had been set off inside.

Fire engines from Bridport raced to the property in West Bay on Sunday night.

The caller couldn’t confirm whether anyone was in the building and could see smoke billowing.

Emergency services were met by a resident of the property who said there was no fire, no one had been injured and that a flare had been set off.

"Crews investigated and found the property full of orange smoke," said a spokesman for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service.

"Crews ventilated the property which allowed for firefighters and police to investigate."

A warning has now been issued about the use of flares - the fire service reminding residents that incorrect use can waste emergency services' time.

"Items such as flares are not toys and should only be used for the purpose they are intended for," the spokesman added. "Used incorrectly they can cause severe injuries and also put a strain on services who have to attend."

The incident was left in the hands of the police.