Brave firemen used mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in a desperate attempt to save a cat and dog trapped in a blazing house fire on Canvey yesterday (Thursday).

Tackling the flames at a house in the Witherings, they discovered the two animals upstairs and tried desperately in vain for 25 minutes to revive them.

Crew members also used artificial respiration equipment but both animals died from smoke inhalation.

Devastated owner Kim Offord was too upset to talk but it is believed that the dog was an 11-year-old Great Dane and the cat was called Lady.

Sub officer Paul Marsh gave mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

He said: "It is unusual but in a situation like that you try to do whatever you can. Animals are as important as humans to many people and it is part of our service that we try to put into practice the first aid techniques that we are taught."

The fire started when a short circuit in a tumble dryer set alight a utility room to the rear of the property.

The utility room was destroyed and the house was completely smokelogged The family is now temporarily homeless.

Emergency - firemen at the scene

Picture: ADRIAN CLARKE

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