TWO 18-years-olds had an amazing escape when the aluminium caravan in which they were sleeping "melted" in a fierce early morning fire.

Sam Watson and Ryan Grimshaw were both taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation but were said by fire officers to be lucky to be alive.

The fire broke out at about 3.15am at the caravan near to Earth View Bungalow, Foxstones Lane, Cliviger, close to the popular bird and animal sanctuary.

Sub Officer John Davies said: "Something has gone wrong with a wood burning stove used to heat the caravan and that has started the fire.

"One of the lads woke up to find the caravan on fire. He managed to scramble out of a window and went back in and dragged his friend out. He did very well indeed to save his mate."

He added: "The boys were extremely lucky although both were taken to hospital. I understand that one of them has since been transferred to Manchester."

Both teenagers were treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Burnley General Hospital.

Sub Officer Davies added: "Water is limited down there but we managed to put it out with the water we were carrying.

"The aluminium caravan was melted completely."