AN ELDERLY woman has been taken to hospital after suffering smoke inhalation from the effects of a "severe" house fire in Bradford this morning. 

The woman was led to safety by family members after her property was damaged by a fire that spread from a neighbouring empty house on Clipstone Street, West Bowling. 

Fire crews from Bradford and Odsal were called to the scene at around 2.30am. 

Dave Burland, watch commander for the Bradford crew, said: "The first floor and the roof of the house have been destroyed. 

"The fire has spread to adjoining properties, and one elderly lady was taken to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. 

"The house was empty, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. 

"Police and fire investigation officers are at the scene this morning continuing their enquiries in the daylight. 

"Crews are also still at the scene fitting smoke alarms."

It is thought the house, described as an end-terrace property, was due to go up for sale for auction. 

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said it was too early to confirm whether the incident was being treated as arson.