A YOUNG couple with a baby were forced to flee their home after a tumble dryer fire in the early hours of this morning.

The fire broke at in the kitchen of a house in Lichfield Avenue, Tonge Moor, at about 1am this morning.

Smoke alarms at the property alerted the family to the danger and they were able to get out of the house without suffering any injuries.

Three fire engines were dispatched to the incident and quickly put the fire out.

But crews did have a problem getting to the property along the narrow road.

A spokesperson for Bolton North fire station said: "They had two hard wired smoke alarms which alerted them to the fire and they managed to get out safely.

"We had a bit of an access issue with vehicle parked down the narrow street, which delayed us a little bit getting to the incident, unfortunately.

"The tumble dryer was completely destroyed and the washing machine was partially destroyed and there was some fire damage to work tops and cupboard units. The rest was smoke damage."

He added: "The couple were a little bit upset, but fortunately didn't suffer any smoke inhalation and were able to get out really quickly."

The crew manager added that the fact the family were able to escape unscathed gave a 'clear message that having a working smoke alarm gives you a chance to get out in the event of a fire."

He also urged motorists to consider fire access when parking on narrow streets.