AN “out of control” bonfire tore through a garden as it set fire to sheds in two homes.

Crews responded to the fire in Elmbridge Road in Ilford just after 7pm yesterday, evacuating nearby homes as a precaution.

Two people were treated for minor smoke inhalation medics at the scene.

The London Fire Brigade said the blaze caused severe damage to a timber shed in the garden of one house and a metal shed in the rear of another.

Fencing from a number of homes were also damaged, with two propane cylinders found near the fire removed and cooled to stop them exploding.

Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from Woodford, Hainault, and Ilford fire stations had the fire under control just after 8pm.

Firefighters are warning residents to take care with bonfires before they spread to into dangerous and “out of control” fires.

An LFB spokesman said: “If you are having a bonfire never leave it unattended and consider your neighbours when you do decide to have a fire in your garden.

“Make sure you build it well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges and never use flammable liquids to start it or burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans.

“You should also always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of fire.”