FIRE crews rescued an elderly woman from a fire in the early hours of Monday morning.

A neighbour raised the alarm after hearing a smoke detector sound at the woman's Renwick Grove home in Great Lever.

The incident occurred at 2.20am and was attended by two fire engines from Farnworth and one from Bolton Central.

Bolton watch manager Martin Finch said: "The lady was in a confused state. She had put some food in the microwave and forgot about it.

"Crews wearing breathing apparatus gained entry by breaking down the door and escorting her off the premises.

"The fire was confined to the microwave in the kitchen although there was some smoke damage."

The occupant was released into the care of her son.