Five animals were rescued and two vet workers and two visitors led to safety from a Dudley veterinary surgery after a tumble drier started a blaze in the basement.

A dog, three cats and a hamster were transferred to emergency accommodation at the vets’ other branch following the drama.

Five fire crews were sent to Black and Partners Veterinary Surgery, in Hall Street, Dudley, after staff noticed smoke pouring from the lower floor at around 8pm yesterday.

Firefighters led the workers, who had been admitting a sick dog to the surgery, and two visitors from the building.

The animals, including the surgery’s own pet cats – Holly, a one-eyed cat, and Jack, who has a stunted tail – were transferred to the surgery’s branch in Sedgley for observation after being checked by the vet .

Paramedics examined the vets and visitors at the scene but none needed hospital treatment.

Firefighters used breathing equipment to tackle the blaze.

The fire was contained in the basement, which suffered severe smoke damage.

Surgery owner Simon Gubbins said an electrician and gas engineer were called out last night to carry out repairs.