A terrifying house fire, described by witnesses as a loud 'explosion', ripped through a semi-detached home on Abbey Drive in Bury on Saturday evening, around 7:30pm. The incident, which occurred on the Seddons Farm estate off Ainsworth Road, led to immediate and heroic actions from neighbours who bravely rescued an elderly resident from the burning property.

Moments after neighbours reported hearing the 'explosion' that blew out the downstairs window, two women rushed to the aid of the 86-year-old resident. One of the heroic neighbours is believed to have just answered the door to a pizza delivery driver when the blaze erupted. Alongside another neighbour from across the street, she courageously dragged the injured pensioner away from her front door and out of danger. A witness, Enid Horrocks, later remarked on their incredible bravery, stating, 'I think it could have been a different story if the neighbours hadn't gone in because she was trying to back inside. She was saying 'No, my house is on fire'. They were really brave.'

The elderly woman reportedly suffered burns to both her arms and one of her feet. Paramedics promptly attended the scene and transported her to hospital for treatment. A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) spokesperson later confirmed that she was taken to hospital with injuries described as 'minor'.

The 'explosion' was powerful enough to blow out the downstairs lounge window, and the intense heat from the fire subsequently melted other windows in the property. Three fire engines, dispatched from Whitefield, Bolton, and Bolton North fire stations, were swiftly called to Abbey Drive. Firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, utilized hose reels to extinguish the ground floor blaze. Emergency services remained at the scene for several hours, with a fire engine and police car present throughout the night, and a cordon put in place. The gas board also attended the scene.

While the exact cause of the fire has not been fully disclosed, a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police confirmed that it is thought to have started accidentally. Crews remained in attendance to secure the scene and ensure safety.