FIREFIGHTERS had to break down sleeping Olwyn Parker's front door before thick, black smoke suffocated her.

The 82-year-old lives in a semi-detached house and was unaware a blaze had broken out next door at Mr and Mrs Morgan's home.

A firefighter had to force his way into the building to find Miss Parker asleep in her downstairs bedroom.

The plucky pensioner told the Argus: "The fireman said I had to wake up and get out because there was a fire.

"The room was full of smoke. I told him OK, but I couldn't hurry because I had to get my Zimmer."

The OAP cannot get around without the aid of a walking frame. She managed to quickly pull on slippers and a dressing gown before leaving with the fireman.

She said: "The room was full of smoke, I had no idea smoke could come through the walls like that."

Miss Parker sought refuge with a neighbour. She was allowed back home earlier today after firefighters gave the all-clear.