A TAKEAWAY worker suffered minor burns to his hands and face when he threw water on a burning fat fire yesterday.

Fire chiefs said the 29-year-old man, who has not been named, was lucky not to have suffered more serious burns.

Firefighters from High Handenhold were called to the Pizza Land takeaway, in Front Street, Stanley, at lunchtime.

Sub officer Brian Pearson said: "The chip fire overheated causing the fire. The worker poured water on it, which is not the best thing to do.

"He suffered minor burns to his hands and face, but was lucky his injuries were not more serious."

He added: "It is easy, in the heat of the moment and confusion, to do the first thing that comes to mind.

"In the case of a chip pan fire, our advice is to smother the fire with a safety blanket or damp tea towel. If in doubt, call the fire brigade and get out."