Probe after gas explosion injures 11

Investigators in Greater Manchester are trying to find out what caused a gas explosion which left 11 people in hospital and destroyed four homes.

The blast tore through a row of terraced houses in Merlin Road in Irlam, Salford, Greater Manchester, at 7.15 a.m. and sent glass and debris into surrounding streets.

The huge explosion caused chaos, rescue crews said, and sparked a painstaking search for residents feared trapped in the rubble, involving scores of police, paramedics and around 40 firefighters from Greater Manchester Fire Brigade.

Several neighbouring streets were cordoned off and National Grid staff were called in to isolate the gas supply.

Investigators are now trawling the scene to establish what caused the explosion.

Tim Doyle, chief executive officer of City West Housing Trust, which owns the properties, said the explosion took place at one of the four homes.

He said: “At around 7.15 this morning there was an explosion at one of our houses in Irlam. We immediately implemented our emergency plan, and we are doing everything to help and support our residents.”

He added: “We can confirm that we have been carrying out improvement works in this area as part of our extensive investment programme, including at this property. We are now working with the emergency services on an ongoing investigation into the cause of the explosion.”

Fire liaison officer Paul Etches said: “It has been absolute chaos at the outset.

“We are carrying out a systematic search at the moment using our search and rescue team. However, there is nobody else reported missing.”