EMERGENCY services are currently dealing with a fire at a house in Westhoughton after nearby residents reported hearing an "explosion".

Fire engines, ambulances, police and an air ambulance responded to the incident on Leigh Road, close to Daisy Hill train station, at around 7pm.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said that they used hoses to bring the blaze under control.

A resident in Leigh Road, who lives around 15 doors down, told The Bolton News: "There were sounds of an explosion just before the train station.

"Three fire engines, police and ambulances went to an old man's house, as well an air ambulance.

"The road is currently closed off and I would imagine it will be for a while now to go over the area for what happened."

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 6:50 pm on Monday 6 July, four fire engines and specialist support vehicles from Bolton Central, Atherton, Leigh, and Rochdale fire stations were called to reports of a fire at a terraced domestic property on Leigh Road, Westhoughton.

“Crews extinguished the fire using three hose reels and six breathing apparatus. Firefighters remain on scene at this time.”

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) said: "Leigh Road, Westhoughton is closed between Hartford Rd and Washacre Rd in both directions. This is due to an ongoing police incident.

"If you're heading this way, please seek an alternative route to avoid delays."

GMP Bolton West said: "Leigh Road near to Daisy Hill train station is currently closed. Please find an alternative route."