A LEIGH pensioner who was released from hospital only hours after a lucky escape from a blaze at his home in Broom Avenue last week is now back in hospital.

Alf Jones, 68, who was lucky to escape with his life after a waste bin in his kitchen set alight while he was dozing in the living room, later had a mild heart attack.

His council home, which suffered serious damage, will have to be refurbished.

In the meantime Mr. Jones is being treated for his illness which, he told The Journal from his hospital bed in Bolton Royal "was probably caused by the shock of having such a lucky escape."

He added: "I was astonished to wake up and find the house in flames, and I just managed to grab the phone and get out of the front door to call the fire brigade.

"I may have to stay in hospital for awhile and I'm hoping the council will be able to repair the damage to my house by the time I go home."

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