Dramatic video shows moment car erupts into flames after residents hear 'big bang'

Dramatic video footage shows the moment a car erupted into flames in Westhoughton on Wednesday afternoon (April 24).

Police and fire crews raced to the scene of the blaze on Manchester Road at around 3.45pm. Those living nearby said they heard a 'big bang' and the car 'smoking' moments before.

The car, parked up along the pavement on the residential road, could be seen burning as fire crews attempted to dampen the flames. It took the fire service around half an hour to eventually put the blaze out.

READ MORE TUI flight forced to make emergency landing at Manchester Airport

The cause of the fire or condition of those involved has not yet been confirmed. Greater Manchester Police have also been approached for comment.

One Manchester Road resident claimed a woman and two children had been in the car, but managed to get out before they heard a 'big bang' and emergency services arrived.

Another said: "The people were out of the car before the flames started. It was smoking really badly when I passed it earlier."

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said: “At around 3.45pm today (Wednesday April 24) one fire engine from Atherton was called to reports of a car fire on Manchester Road, Westhoughton.

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to quickly extinguish the fire and make the surrounding area safe. Crews were in attendance for about half an hour.”