A man in his 70s is in a critical condition in hospital following a house fire in Bolton.
The man was rescued from his burning house in Leigh Road, Daisy Hill, Westhoughton on Monday night.
Emergency services were called the house shortly after 6.50pm following reports of a fire.
Fire crews from Bolton Central, Atherton, Leigh, Hindley and Rochdale were scrambled to the scene, along with ambulances and the police. An air ambulance also landed nearby.
The man was then taken to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.
Neighbour Kathleen Horrocks said: "As soon as we realised what was happening we got the dogs out of the house as soon as possible.
"We all had to evacuate while they checked our houses for any gas canisters. They went in all our lofts.
"My house really smells of smoke now.
"We're just waiting to hear how he is.
"Two random heroes, who none of us know, ran around the back to try and get him out. I've not seen them since though."
Another person said: "There was a massive bang when the windows went through.
"Those two lads who came to his rescue want an award. One of them stayed was just driving past and stayed with him until the ambulance came."
Fire crews extinguished the fire using three hose reels and six breathing apparatus. They were in attendance for around two hours.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is conducting an investigation along with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
A GMP spokesman said: "Police were called to Leigh Road, Westhoughton in Bolton to reports of a fire at a property.
"An elderly man was taken to hospital in a critical condition.
"Investigation work is ongoing with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
"The road has since reopened.
"Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 2427 of 06/07/20. Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
