A CAR burst into flames on the M61 because of an electrical fault earlier tonight although the male driver escaped unhurt, aided by his brother.

Fire crews from Horwich and Bolton Central were called after a black Ford Focus caught fire between junction 6 at Horwich and junction 5 at Chequerbent at about 8.30pm.

The man quickly left the car after flames began to appear from underneath the dashboard.

It is understood that the fire emanated from some electrical components around the glove box area.

Firefighters found the man sitting in a car behind the Ford on the hard shoulder, which was being driven by his brother.

The fire was quickly put out by firefighters, but the car was damaged beyond repair.

Nobody was injured as a result of the fire.

The M61 was not closed during the incident, with firefighters able to isolate the blaze to the hard shoulder.

A fire service spokesman said: "The man got out of the car very quickly and it was a good job he did as the fire spread very quickly.

"We extinguished the fire immediately without there being a need to close the motorway.

"The Highways Agency will now be responsible for clearing up any debris and ensuring the motorway is fit for use."