A community is rallying around in a bid to find a home for a dog after a woman was left hospitalised following a fire at an Ipswich home last night.

Ipswich Star: The aftermath of a Christmas evening fire in La Salle Close, IpswichThe aftermath of a Christmas evening fire in La Salle Close, Ipswich

Two police officers broke into a house which was “well alight” in La Salle Close soon after 9pm on Christmas Day following reports that a woman, believed to be in her 30s, was trapped inside and was unconscious.

The extent of the woman’s injuries have not yet been confirmed, but it is understood that she is in a critical condition.

This morning, the immediate community was conducting a desperate search to find animals which had been living at the property new homes.

So far, they have been successful in finding new owners for two dogs, two cats and a rabbit, however help is still needed to house a two-year-old neutered female husky named Ruby.

One of the neighbours helping with the rehoming, who did not want to be named, said from the scene this morning: “All I saw was what looked like flames in the bedroom and I came running downstairs.

“Police were banging (on the door) to get in.

“She wouldn’t have wanted to hurt anyone.”

Both officers were treated for smoke inhalation following the incident, which unfolded at around 9pm. They had been alerted to the incident, in a domestic close off Maidenhall Approach, by the fire service.

They forced entry into the property where they found the unconscious woman and were able to take her to safety outside of the house.

A police spokeswoman said last night: “Ambulance personnel treated her at the scene before she was taken to Ipswich hospital.

“Two officers who went into the property are receiving treatment for smoke inhalation.”

Three fire crews from Princes Street station and another from Ipswich East were sent to the scene.

The blaze had been brought under control by 9.45pm.

Police say an investigation will be carried out to determine the cause of the blaze and anyone with information is asked to call Suffolk Constabulary on 101, quoting CAD number 240 of yesterday, Friday 25 December.

Anyone who may be able to help in rehoming Ruby should call 07727 635374.