A MAN was taken to hospital after a cooker burst into flames at his flat.

Fire crews said the kitchen of the ground-floor apartment in Radcliffe was "extensively damaged" by the blaze.

The resident was treated for smoke inhalation before being taken to hospital for further precautionary checks.

Firefighters from Bury, Whitefield and Farnworth attended the incident in Oakwood Grove at about 10pm yesterday.

They said the fire was being treated as accidental but a fire investigation is being carried out to determine the cause.

Rick Taylor, white watch manager at Bury Fire Station, said: "The kitchen was extensively damaged.

"There was heavy smoke logging throughout the flat.

"There was one person inside the property who we treated on the scene for smoke inhalation. He was later assessed by paramedics.

"The fire is believed to be accidental. An investigation is being carried out."

It is understood the resident had been out at the time the fire started.

Crews have urged householders to ensure they have working smoke alarms fitted in their homes.

Mr Taylor said: "There was a smoke alarm fitted in the flat but it did not sound because it was in another room.

"Thankfully the internal door was shut which kept the smoke within the kitchen and dining area.

"It is important to have smoke alarms fitted. If anyone requires these, we carry out free home visits."

Crews used two breathing apparatus and a hose reel to put out the fire.

They remained in attendance for about 90 minutes.

To book a free Safe and Well visit, carried out by trained Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service teams, call 0800 555 815.