AN 85-year-old woman was rescued by firefighters when fire broke out in the bedroom of her Lowton home.

After receiving a call about 8.20pm last night Blue Watch firefighters entered a semi-detached house in Winton Road through a bedroom window and rescued the woman.

Watch Manager Michael Eckersall said: "Once we had gained entry through the bedroom window using a ladder, the lady was carried downstairs and then outside - where she was given oxygen by a GMFRS trauma technician before going to hospital."

The fire is thought to have started as a result of a fault with an electric blanket.

Councillor David Acton, Chair of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, said: "People are understandably reaching for their heaters and electric blankets again with the freezing temperatures.

"We urge everyone to use such items with caution - ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions and, if in any doubt your blanket or heater is not working absolutely perfectly, do not use it."