A man has appeared before Blackburn magistrates charged with arson following a fire at a house in Cardwell Street, Padiham, on Tuesday.

The court was told neighbours heard at least one explosion from the house at around 8am on January 3.

Sameena Chaudhry, prosecuting, said one witness went to Cardwell Street to check on the safety of his mother who was a neighbour.

He saw a fire inside the house but withdrew when he heard an explosion.

Michael McGough, 49, of Cardwell Street, Padiham, was charged with arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered and arson with intent to endanger life.

He was sent in custody to Preston Crown Court and was remanded in custody until his appearance there on February 1.