A COURAGEOUS young man has lost his fight for life after a fire destroyed his home.

Daniel Smith died two days after suffering serious burns in a blaze that ripped through his house on Stonebarn Lane, Palacefields.

Neighbours rallied round to help and said one man managed to carry him out of the burning building.

The 25-year-old battled for survival in the burns unit of Whiston Hospital for more than 30 hours where he sadly died in the early hours of Friday morning.

Residents watched in horror as flames leapt through the roof of the two-storey end terrace shortly after 3.15pm on Wednesday.

Initial reports claimed there had been an explosion.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Three ambulances, five rapid response vehicles and an air ambulance attended the scene.

A spokesman for North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust said: “We sent a lot of resources to the scene as we were told it was a possible gas explosion.”

Nearby homes were evacuated as firefighters from Runcorn, Widnes, Warrington, Stockton Heath and Chester tackled the fierce blaze.

Crews used an aerial appliance to bring the flames under control.

Gas and electricity engineers carried out surveys.

A structural assessment by building control declared the house was unsafe to enter.

Firefighters used thermal imaging cameras to make sure there were no further areas of heat or fire.

Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire Brigade have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the fire which gutted the roof and first floor.

A Cheshire Fire spokesman said: “Sadly we have learned that the 25-year-old man injured in this incident has died. Our thoughts are with all those who knew him.”

A Cheshire Police spokesman said: “Police are not seeking anyone else in connection with their enquiries.”

Flowers and tender messages have been tied to a tree yards from the wrecked shell of the fire ravaged house.

In a card Sue said: “I will never forget the horrific injuries you endured. You were so brave. I will always remember how you coped bravely with the pain.

“I will always remember you telling me you wanted to see Linkin Park rock in heaven. RIP angel eyes.”

Another message read: “RIP Daniel. May God be with you.”

Friends and neighbours have paid tribute on social media.

Gemma Caston posted: “So sad. Thinking of his family at this sad time.”

Elaine McMillan said: “So sad. We were there when it happened. My family’s thoughts and prayers are with you.”

Suzanne Parkes added: “RIP brave lad. So sorry I couldn’t help you anymore. Will always play your fave tunes. Condolences to the family.”

Craig Williams posted: “My condolences to his family and respect to all the people who helped especially the gardener who raised the alarm.”