FIRE crews were called to a flat in Bury after a washing machine burst into flames.

When firefighters from Bury arrived at the scene of the incident in Derby Court, Chesham, the fire was out.

The residents, a man and a woman, had "taken all of the appropriate actions" and evacuated the building, crews said.

The man, believed to be in his 60s, called the fire service at about 8.40pm yesterday. No on was injured.

Rick Taylor, watch manager at Bury Fire Station, said: "We were called to a fire involving a washing machine.

"The fire was out on our arrival.

"We isolated the power to the appliance and removed it from the property."

Mr Taylor added: "It is important that people are aware of what to do in a situation like this. The man did all of the right things.

"He had turned the power off and ventilated the flat, which meant there was very little smoke fire damage.

"He called the fire brigade for advice and assistance. He had a working smoke alarm.

"He had also closed the door to the lounge/kitchen area to prevent possible fire spread, and waited outside for us to arrive."

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service provides free Safe and Well visits to give advice and increase fire safety awareness. They may also include the fitting of a free smoke alarm. To book, call 0800 555 815.