A police investigation has been launched following a fire in the early hours of Saturday.

Two people were rescued following a fire at a first-floor flat in Knutshaw Crescent, located off Wigan Road, in the early hours of today, May 25.

Earlier today, Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service confirmed that two people – a man and a woman – had to be rescued and brought down by a ladder as they were trapped by smoke.

No injuries have been reported by emergency services.

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Now, Greater Manchester Police has confirmed it has opened an arson investigation as a result of the fire.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “In the early hours of today (Saturday 25 May 2024) at around 1am, we were called to Knutshaw Crescent in Bolton along with other emergency service colleagues.

“Following enquiries an investigation into arson has begun by our detectives with no arrests made at this time. Thankfully, no injuries were reported at the scene.”

Fire crews from Bolton Central, Bolton North, and Atherton fire stations were in attendance, and the fire was put out quickly – within five to ten minutes.

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Earlier today, a spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At 1.30am this morning (Saturday 25th May) firefighters were called to reports of a fire at a building on Knutshaw Crescent, Bolton.

“Four fire engines from Atherton, Bolton, and Bolton North fire stations arrived quickly at the scene, which involved a flat.

“Crews wearing breathing apparatus used one hose reel to extinguish the fire, and helped to extricate a man and a woman from the building. GMFRS were in attendance for one hour.”

North West Ambulance Service has been contacted for comment.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.