A MAN is still fighting for his life today after a gas explosion left him with 50 per cent burns.

Albert Heys, of Allenby Grove, Westhoughton, was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital on Tuesday after the blast at Livesey Court flats, Mill Hill, Blackburn.

Mr Heys, aged 54, was working as a sub-contractor for Blackburn Council carrying out demolition work on the top floor of the flats when the gas powered machine he was using to strip plaster exploded.

Mr Heys managed to stagger down 240 stairs to seek medical help.

His condition this morning was described as "critical but stable" by the Royal Preston Hospital.

Colleague Michael O'Dowd, aged 20, of Burnley, was thrown across the flat in the blast and suffered carbon monoxide poisoning.

Mr Heys has worked for Westhougton-based Malrods for 14 years and was foreman on the Blackburn job.

Representatives from Malrods declined to comment about the accident but today Mr Heys' workmates paid tribute.

Alan Manley, from Burnley, was in the next room to Mr Heys when he heard the explosion.

He said: "Albert was in a real bad way when the ambulance crews arrived.

"His injuries didn't look nice at all. The hospital put him under sedation for 48 hours but we're all going to see him when he's had a chance to settle down. His family have visited him.

"I have only known him for a couple of weeks. He is such a nice man and can't do enough for you."

Sean Cook said: "He is really easy to get along with and knows his job inside out."

Mr Heys' wife was to upset to talk about the accident this morning.

Officers from the Health and Safety Executive are investigating and believe it may have been caused by a build-up of gas in the machine.

A spokesman said: "It's just speculation at the moment. We hope to interview Mr Heys when he is well enough."

A spokesman for Blackburn Council said: "We are extremely sorry and upset about what's happened.

"We will co-operate fully with the HSE to do what we can to try to identify the cause of the problem."