A HERO neighbour rescued a pensioner from his burning home in a fire.

The blaze at a home in Higher Heys, Oswaldtwistle, started after an electrical fault late last night.

Watch manager Mick Angland said the elderly couple were downstairs and after the man went to investigate he was overcome by the smoke and was unable to return downstairs.

His wife was able to flee, Mr Angland said, but before fire crews arrived a neighbour had been able to enter the home and lead the man to safety.

Mr Angland said: “The man had mobility issues so was unable to get out of the house alone.

"Luckily his neighbour heard the smoke alarm and went to his aid.”