RESIDENTS had to flee their beds early today after a car smashed into a gas pipe.

Three homes were evacuated at 4am when the Citroen ploughed into their homes in Bell Lane, Bury.

Police are appealing for witnesses and say two men were seen running away from the car. One appeared to be injured.

Debris was scattered across the terraced street. The car left a trail of destruction after hitting street signs, a lamp post and the front of houses.

Emergency services were mobilised involving firefighters, ambulance paramedics, police and emergency street cleaners from Bury Council.

Bury Station Officer Paul Myerscough said: "Everyone was lucky that the car didn't explode on impact. The gas pipe was ripped open and gas was escaping very quickly."

Police sealed off the area for 90 minutes and are appealing for information. They can be contacted on 0161 856 8072.