KFC in Bolton town centre has remained temporarily closed after a chip pan fire on Wednesday night.

A fire broke out due to an electrical fault after excess fat dripped down the back of a food machine, a fire spokesman said.

The fast food restaurant in Derby Street, near Bolton College, has been shut until 1.30pm today due to health and safety reasons.

Firefighters from nearby Bolton Central station were called to KFC shortly after 8.15pm. Crews from Bolton North were also called initially.

Watch manager from Bolton Central, Ian Read, said: "The residual fat had dripped down the back of the machine.

"It was an accident. Staff had cleaned the machine.

"There was a small amount of smoke. The fire was contained inside the machine.

"We opened the machine up and used a foam extinguisher to tackle the fire inside.

"They closed the restaurant for the evening for cleaning purposes.”

Crews remained at the restaurant for 30 minutes.

A members of staff at the restaurant refused to comment.