AN unattended pan of boiling water sparked a kitchen fire at a house in Horwich.

The 52-year-old resident was cooking a pan of spaghetti before it caught fire at his house in Chapel Street, at around 10am today.

Fire crews were called after the blaze spread to a toaster and microwave.

Watch manager Craig Lunt, said: “He was cooking a pan of spaghetti and the toaster was extremely close to the hob, it caught fire and quickly spread to the microwave on the shelf above.

“Luckily he had smoke alarms which we had actually fitted so they alerted him and he was able to call us before it could spread anymore.

“We advised he stood outside and he did and left the back door open, which allowed for the heat and smoke to leave the room.

“We gave him some advice but he seemed shaken.

"He did the right thing to stand outside.

"His toaster, microwave and hob were completely destroyed.

“We want to remind people to check their smoke alarms or to get in touch so we can fit free alarms and offer safety advice.”