IPSWICH: A teenager is due to appear in court later this month after being charged with drug offences following a fire at his home.

Brandon Tillotson, of Willowcroft Road, Ipswich was originally arrested on suspicion of possessing crack cocaine and cannabis.

However, after answering his police bail on Monday, the 19-year-old was accused of a total of six offences.

A spokesman for Suffolk Constabulary said Tillotson faces two allegations of possessing a Class A drug with intent to supply.

He also faces a further two charges of possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply.

In addition Tillotson is also accused of two counts of possessing criminal property.

He is currently on bail until the first hearing of his case.

Tillotson is due to appear before South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court in Ipswich on March 14.

Smoke engulfed the rear bedroom of Tillotson’s home after a mattress went up in flames.

The blaze, which occurred around 9.15am on January 18, caused extensive smoke damage. At first one crew of firefighters were sent to the scene. However, as they approached the house, which was obscured by thick black smoke, they requested further assistance and two more crews were despatched to help.

Tillotson was said to have sustained minor burns to his hands and feet during the blaze. He also received treatment for smoke inhalation, but was not taken to hospital.

Speaking at the time Dale Mason, crew manager for the fire service, said the blaze had caused substantial damage.