Dozens of animals saved from fire

The fire started in a storage area

Two men and dozens of animals, including 16 rare birds, have escaped unharmed from a fire at pet store.

Lizards and gerbils were among the animals saved from the fire at Aquapet, in Castle Bromwich, Birmingham.

Owner Trish Bennett said the animals have been moved to her mother-in-law's and friend's houses while an inquiry into the cause was carried out.

"The parrot was a bit dirty...but he gave me a kiss when he came out so he was happy to be rescued." she said.

The fire broke out in the storage area of the pet shop in Green Lane at 0300 BST.

Most of the smaller animals are at my mother-in-law's, who is on holiday and does not know about this yet Trish Bennett, pet shop owner

Neighbours reported seeing large flames and hearing small explosions.

The two men were in a flat above the shop. One was rescued by firefighters while the other jumped, injuring his ankle.

Two exotic birds died from the effects of smoke.

Ms Bennett said she was very grateful to firefighters for rescuing George the parrot, who has been in the shop for 25 years.

"Most of the smaller animals are at my mother-in-law's, who is on holiday and does not know about this yet," she told BBC News.

"They have all been checked and have more food and water.

"The parrot and reptiles have gone to a friend's house up the road."