A WOMAN was fighting for her life in hospital today after her nightdress caught fire in a freak accident at her Bury home.

Miss Sarah Cunningham, aged 27, was turned into a human fireball as her clothing caught fire.

Firefighters believe the badly burned woman, who has learning difficulties, was playing with matches.

She suffered 25 per cent burns to her legs and back and was in a critical condition at Withington Hospital's burns unit this lunchtime.

Fire fighters called to Spencer Street, Bury, shortly after 1am yesterday were confronted by Miss Cunningham screaming in agony.

She was rushed to Bury General Hospital for immediate treatment before being transferred to Withington Hospital.

Miss Cunningham is understood to have been spotted playing with a box of matches before the accident.

A full investigation is to be held by fire chiefs.

Police have confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances.

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