Enemalta has been ordered to pay compensation of €68,678 to Alvin and Ursola Borg of Zebbug following a gas explosion at their home on June 21, 2007.

Mr Borg had suffered serious burns to 33 per cent of his body and is still suffering the consequences.

The explosion was caused by leakage of gas from a cylinder which was not being used and was stored in a covered balcony.

The explosion ignited a fire in a bedroom and caused structural damage totalling €8,000.

The court found that the explosion was caused by a defect of the gas cylinder. The wheel valve was not completely closed and the cylinder cap was broken.

The court heard that Mr Borg had smelt gas and gone to investigate. As he approached the cylinder the explosion took place.

The cylinder had been bought two to three weeks previously.

Enemalta argued during the proceedings that the gas cylinder was issued in a good state for use. The Borgs said the cylinder or tampered with was never used.

A technical expert said the cylinder had been leaking for more than two hours. The wheel valve, he said, should never have opened.

Dr Caroline Farrugia was legal counsel to the Borgs.