AN investigation has been launched following a fridge fire at a block of flats.

About five people had to evacuate their building in Breightmet due to the blaze on an external balcony.

Fire crews said the incident in Withins Lane last night is believed to be deliberate.

A joint investigation is being carried out by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and Greater Manchester Police.

Mark McCourt, crew manager at Bolton North fire station, said: "A domestic fridge had been left outside on a first-floor balcony.

"We were notified of the fire by one of the residents.

"They evacuated their flats because of the smoke that was issuing from the appliance. The fire was contained to the fridge.

"Thankfully no one was injured."

The block of flats comprises four residential apartments — two on the ground floor and two on the first floor.

All of the residents got themselves out of the building.

Fire crews were called to the blaze at about 10.30pm last night. They used two sets of breathing apparatus and one hose reel to respond to the incident.

They remained at the scene for about 90 minutes.