Wigan flat completely destroyed by 'smoking materials' blaze

This flat was destroyed by a blaze overnight

Firefighters from Wigan and Hindley fire stations spent more than three and a half hours putting out the fire after being called to a property in Hector Road, Marsh Green, at around 4am today (Wednesday, August 14).

The fire was so large that Wigan crews could already see the smoke when leaving their station at the Saddle junction.

Firefighters reported that the fire had been sparked by an ashtray of "smoking materials" such as ash and cigarettes, which were not completely put out, and may have fallen over onto the floor.

The flat's occupant escaped unharmed, having been alerted to the flames by his smoke alarm.

Four engines and four hydraulic platforms were used to douse the flames from outside, while firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and carrying water jets made their way inside the smoke-filled building to fight the damage from inside.

The scene was under control by 7.30am, but little more than the shell of the flat remains.