A YOUNG couple with an 11-month-old baby escaped unhurt after a tumble dryer burst into flames during the early hours of the morning.

Bobbie Brown and partner Liam Rice were alerted by two smoke alarms in the property, in Lichfield Avenue, Tonge Moor, just before 2am on Monday.

They were able to safely get out with tiny Harrison and their pet dogs before calling the fire service.

Crews put the fire out ‘within 10 minutes’ once inside the property.

The tumble dryer, which was not in use at the time, was completely destroyed, while a washing machine, fridge and cupboard units were badly damaged.

Ms Brown said the smoke alarms had undoubtedly saved their lives.

She said: “The amount of people I’m now going to encourage to check their smoke alarms is unreal. If we’d not had smoke alarms we would not have got out. Not only that but the baby’s bedroom is right over the kitchen, so he would have gone first.”

The 26-year-old, who is twelve weeks pregnant, said the fire was the most frightening experience of her life.

She said: “I’ve never experienced fear like that before. I was so worried. In the first initial panic I was just thinking ‘baby, baby, baby’ - I just wanted to make sure my baby was all right.”

Harrison’s high-chair, walker, pram and toys were all damaged in the fire, while his clothes are ingrained with the smell of smoke. And Christmas presents bought for him and eight-year-old brother Connor, who lives with his father.

Ms Brown added: “I don’t want to get to Christmas Day and have nothing for Harrison. And I’ve just spoken to Connor’s dad and he is going to be devastated he won’t be able to come for Christmas.”

Anyone who is able to donate cash or replacement items to help the family get back on their feet can contact Ms Brown’s sister, Nikki Brown on 07393 628412 nicolajadebrown89@gmail.com or Nikki Jaaydee Baxter

There is also a Go Fund Me page,  gofundme.com/2bwmwsys, search for Raising funds for bobbie/house fire under 'Emergencies' and the location Tonge with The Haulgh ward, England.