A NEIGHBOUR smashed a window and back door to help a mum and son who were trapped in a kitchen fire.

The incident took place on Athlone Avenue in Bolton at 6.50pm on Sunday night.

Fire crews from Bolton North, Bolton Central and Farnworth were called to the blaze after reports of a person was trapped in the house.

However, when they arrived, James Jackson had heard a fire alarm and smashed the rear window and door and helped them out.

Watch manager Gareth Peters said: "This brave neighbour had managed to rescue the mother and son from the property.

"The ground floor kitchen was on fire and we used breathing apparatus and confined the fire to there.

"These heroic actions prevented further injury to the occupants.

"We had smoke damage contained to the kitchen and tactical ventilation prevented the spread.

"The fire service gave treatment for burns and smoke inhalation until the paramedics arrived.

"We remained at the scene for 90 minutes and working along with North West Ambulance Service and police were there.

"The working fire alarms gave advance warning on fire.

"Our advice is don't leave cooking unattended and check smoke alarms.

"Safe and wellbeing viewings are available on 0880 555815."