TWO drivers had a lucky escape following a major crash in Whitworth.

The accident happened in Market Street near Oakenshaw Avenue, just before 7.30pm on Thursday. A transit van collided with a Peugeot 106 and following impact the car burst into flames.

Both drivers were taken to Rochdale Infirmary. The male driver of the van was treated for whiplash and shock and the female driver was expected to be detained for observation.

PC Mark Newton, of Bacup police, said: “Thankfully the drivers didn’t sustain serious injuries. They were very lucky. The car didn’t explode. It started as a small fire and then engulfed the vehicle. Investigations are now ongoing.”

Traffic investigators attended the scene and Market Street was closed in both directions until 11pm, causing major traffic chaos.

One driver said: “It was very chaotic and it took me two hours to travel less than two miles home. Some people were getting out of their cars and walking because the road was closed for so long.”