A COLLECTION of vintage cars and trucks were seconds from being destroyed when a blaze tore through a fireworks warehouse.

Firefighters were forced to take cover as rockets shot out of the door as they tackled the fire at the site, which also operates as a kitchen firm.

Up to 25 firefighters battled to control the blaze for more than four hours after it started at The Firework Shop, in Taylor Street, Darwen, shortly before 1am yesterday.

Police closed the road and firefighters could not enter the property until later yesterday.

An extension ladder in Bolton Road was used to tackle the fire from above the building as well as from ground level.

Steve Ryan, watch manager at Darwen fire station, said: The fireworks made tackling the blaze difficult because as soon as they ignited, the safety of our crews was paramount.

"The firefighting had to take place from outside the building but they were still coming out of the building at the crews.

"A number of kitchen units were ruined and a collection of vintage cars and truck, also being stored there, were recovered undamaged."

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the blaze but police say it is not thought to be suspicious.

Mr Ryan added: "The roof remained intact so we didn't have the problem of fireworks leaving that way .

"But when we opened the loading bay door, several of the fireworks flew out.

"The building was very secure and we had difficulty gaining access.

"The fire started on the first floor area and then it burned through the floor and ignited the fireworks store part of the building."

Sgt Kevin Kavanagh, of Darwen police, said: "It is too early to say what the cause of the fire was.

"We will have to wait for the outcome of the investigations."

Crews remained at the scene for most of the day yesterday carrying out safety checks and securing the building.

The owner, who declined to give his name, said he was too distressed to comment.