TWO people have escaped from their home after a fire started in an upstairs bedroom.

Firefighters responded to the blaze at a property in The Sheddings, Great Lever, tonight.

The occupants fled from the house at about 7.30pm and called 999, prompting a response from crews.

Jason Riding, crew manager at Bolton Central, said: "We were called to a bedroom fire.

"A woman had lit a candle.

"The cause has been established as a faulty lighter, which caused some bedding to set on fire.

"The occupants followed the correct procedure. They shut the door to the room, left the building and called the fire brigade.

"A double bed was burnt and the blinds had melted. Thankfully no one was injured."

Two fire engines from Bolton Central and one from Farnworth attended. They remained in attendance for about 40 minutes.

Crews have issued safety advice following the fire, urging residents to ensure that they use candles safely.

They also advised homeowners to check that they have working smoke alarms.

To book a free safe and well visit, call Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 555 815.