AN investigation is underway after a fire caused severe damage to a terraced house in Haslingden in the early hours of today.

Around 25 firefighters from across East Lancashire were involved in tackling the blaze at the property in Prospect Hill, which was first reported to the emergency services just before 3.45am.

Fire chiefs have confirmed that a mother and her two boys, aged seven and 10, were alerted to the fire and managed to escape into the street.

Neighbours at adjoining properties, which were also smokelogged, were evacuated as firefighters successfully battled to prevent the flames from spreading.