Investigators are examining a number of potential causes for a shocking Boxing Day house fire. Five fire engines were scrambled to the family home in Hyde at 10.30pm on Boxing Day.
It is understood the occupants of the home on Talbot Road escaped the blaze unharmed. Meanwhile an investigation into the cause of the fire is being led by Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service.
Investigators remain open-minded about the specific cause but consider the cause of the fire, which began in the loft, was accidental, the Manchester Evening News understands.
Investigators have uncovered no evidence to suggest a wood burner or the flue were involved in starting the fire.
One couple, who live across the road, said at the time: “We heard crackling and thought somebody was burning something. We understand they were out at the time.
“We were putting the bins out and had a look and saw it coming out of the roof. We immediately called the fire service. It’s lucky they were out at the time really, wasn’t it.”
Another neighbour said: “I made the call at 10.32pm. I don’t know what caused it but there were five engines outside and a pump. They were here within minutes of me calling. It was all on the top floor, we’ve heard. They’ve been here all morning.”
And another neighbour, who lives close to the house said: “We woke up at about 11pm and saw them all outside.
“They weren’t here at the time but we saw one of the children run up to the house thinking they were in there. It must have been horrifying.
“They’re such lovely people as well, it couldn’t have happened at a worse time than this. I’m just glad they are ok.”
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said previously: “Just after 10.30pm last night (Thursday, December 26), five fire engines from Hyde, Stalybridge, Ashton, Gorton and Hollins fire station were called to reports of a building fire involving a property on Talbot Road, Hyde. Crews arrived quickly at the scene.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a hose reel, jet, gas monitor, chimney roads, hearth kit and thermal imaging camera to extinguish the fire and carry out safety checks. Firefighters have been in attendance for around eight hours and are still at the scene.”