Beko fridge-freezers manufactured between January 2000 and October 2006 are at the centre of the safety warning, and it is thought as many as 500,000 could be in use. London Fire Brigade say there have been 20 fires in the capital alone involving the fridge freezers since 2008, which have seen one person die and 15 people injured.

Owners of the appliances are asked to contact Beko on 0800 009 4837. A list of faulty model numbers can be found here. The same recall applies to a model badged LEC fridge freezer.

In a statement, Beko plc said that since becoming aware of the issue, the company has been working to identify the fault and the best method of reaching all affected consumers to arrange a modification. Beko recall notice