AN ITALIAN couple on their way to Scotland were forced to make an unwanted stop in Bolton after a fire started in their car.

The pair noticed smoke coming from the engine of their black Kia Rio vehicle as they passed Junction four of the M61 at midday on Saturday.

Crews from Farnworth arrived quickly on the scene and were able to put the fire out and cool the engine down, before moving the car off the road.

Crew manager Mike O’Neill explained: “When we arrived there was black smoke billowing out from under the bonnet, but the team were able to stop it.

“Unfortunately they didn’t have roadside assistance but we were able to put them in touch with someone who could come and take their car away.

“They told us it was their first trip to Scotland and they didn’t let the incident stop them as they went on to get the train.”