A CAR burst into flames in the middle of the street, sparking alarm among passersby.

A business owner described how he warned people to avoid the area "in case the car exploded."

Fire crews were called to a vehicle on fire in Brook Street, Bury, shortly before 5.30pm today.

Smoke and flames were seen issuing from the red Citroën.

It is not yet known how the fire started.

Firefighters were seen using a hose reel and other equipment to tackle the blaze. A section of the road was also cordoned off to members of the public.

Jason Davenport, who owns Davenports Business Support Centre which is located in Brook Street, said: "The car just burst into flames.

"Our building is literally in front of the car. There were people just stood watching. Me and my business partner were getting people to avoid the area in case it exploded. People were screaming.

"Thankfully the two people inside the car were able to get out safely. No one was hurt.

"The fire crews were here in minutes. They have doused it with foam and water."