Freezer fire in Middleton leaves family of nine homeless
A family of nine has been left homeless after a freezer caught fire at their house in Greater Manchester.
Crews were called to Durnford Street in Middleton just after midnight.
The family, including three adults and six children aged five to 16, escaped unhurt after being helped by neighbours.
Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service is investigating the cause of the fire, which is believed to have started in the utility room.
Owner Amanda Holmes said her husband's cousin spotted smoke coming from a back room, opened the door and "saw the freezer on fire".
"There was smoke within minutes, seconds, it was just everywhere and you couldn't see."
Crews were at the scene for about six hours to ensure that the fire was fully extinguished.