Two hurt in blast at fireworks store

AFTERMATH of the explosion and fire

SHOCKWAVES were felt throughout Failsworth yesterday as a fireworks storage unit exploded.

Six fire crews from miles around were called to Sandfield House in Morton Street after reports of a loud bang from nearby businesses and residents.

Two men, aged 39 and 49 had suffered serious burns but were breathing when reached by the emergency crews. One was taken to Wythenshawe Hospital burns unit, the other to the Royal Oldham Hospital.

The explosion is believed to have been caused when a container of fireworks caught fire and set light to a nearby container of gas cylinders.

Firemen used standard water jets and a “ground monitor” — equipment used on large fires needing a large volume of water — to extinguish the blaze. They later found an acetylene cylinder which required cooling. Crews were at the scene into the early hours of this morning. Traffic towards Oldham was delayed by the operation.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed a joint investigation alongside the fire service will begin this morning into the cause of the fire.