EX-SOLDIER Tom Eastham and his wife were shocked when a big firework blast rocked their home.

The former artilleryman went out to investigate a loud bang outside their home in Fairhaven Road, Highercroft, Blackburn.

He was stunned to find the mortar-style firework had wrecked the PVC roof of an extension and blown off the alley-way gate.

Mr Eastham, 57, who served in the Royal Artillery for 10 years, said: "There was an almighty bang and we couldn't believe our eyes when we saw the extent of the damage.

"The power of the blast was similar to a shell or mortar bomb.

"I really believe we could have been killed or at least seriously hurt if we had been outside when it landed on the plastic roof."

Police are investigating the incident.

Mr Eastham suffers from severe arthritis and spondylitis and his wife Avril, 54, has angina and arthritis.

Mr Eastham built the wooden frame with plastic roof to make it easier for them both to get to the bins and the shed in bad weather.

He added: "The whole house shook. I have nothing against fireworks, but surely shops shouldn't be selling ones this powerful.

"Our elderly next door neighbours are also disabled and a vent in their house was almost blown out. It was frightening for us all."

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