A WORKMAN was rushed to hospital with burns after pouring petrol on to an open fire at a Chorley farm.

Fire chiefs said the man was lucky not to have been more seriously injured.

The accident happened at Yarrow Farm, German Lane, Charnock Richard, on Monday.

Contractor Tony Lowe, aged 37, suffered 15 per cent superficial burns to his chest and abdomen after he attempted to re-ignite the fire.

Two fire crews, including one from Chorley, attended the scene shortly after 5pm.

A fire spokesman explained: "We received a call around 4.55pm saying that a person had been burnt after pouring petrol on an open fire.

"The property, which is in a remote part of the village, was being renovated by a group of contractors.

"The flashback surrounded the man and also set fire to a nearby settee. Although he had only minor burns he was still very lucky -- it could so easily have been a lot worse."

He added: "We still have to remind people that using petrol on an open fire is very dangerous indeed.

"We are fast approaching the barbecue season now the weather is improving, so we urge people not to use petrol on open fires."

A spokesperson for Chorley Hospital described Mr Lowe, who comes from Bispham, as "satisfactory."

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