ASTLEY Bridge residents called 999 after hearing a loud bang in the middle of the night - and it turned out to be a car on fire.

Firefighters based in Bolton fire station in Crompton Way, were called to Park Avenue at 3.30am today and tackled a fire in a blue Vauxhall Astra convertible car.

The fire completely destroyed the car, which had earlier been parked on the street by the owner.

Fire chiefs have referred the incident to police, who are investigating a possible arson attack.

A Fire Service spokesman added: "About an hour earlier, we were called to a wheelie bin fire about a mile away in Sharples Road.

"It's possible the two incidents are linked but we are not sure at this stage. The police are looking into it."

Call police on 101 with information.