A MAN had a lucky escape after his mattress went up in flames.

Firefighters from Leigh station were called to sheltered accommodation in Fairfax Drive, Westcliff, about 10.30am today after being alerted by a fire alarm.

Leading firefighter Kevin Wheeler said the man, who was about 35 and appeared to be drunk, discarded a cigarette which ignited his bed and some newspapers next to it.

Fire crews spent two hours at the scene, using an extinguisher in the home to put out the blaze in the bedroom.

Mr Wheeler said: "We had to escort the man away.

"He appeared to be under the influence of alcohol.

"The fire had the potential to be serious."

The man was unharmed and is staying with a friend.