Spotland fire rescue search

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service Fire Appliance

Police are investigating after a wheelie bin full of rubbish was set alight and propped against the front door of a house this morning (Sunday 19 July).

Firefighters entered the blazing building in the belief that a 90-year old woman was trapped inside.

Three fire engines turned out at Lower Pitch Road, Spotland, at 5.00am, to find the burning bin placed suspiciously in the doorway, causing fire damage to the door, wall and window.

Fire crews searched the house for the pensioner but were later informerd by neighbours that she had recently moved out of the house into sheltered accommodation.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the fire was deliberate. He said: “The police were also on scene and an investigation will be carried out.

“Three appliances attended and no-one was hurt in the incident.”