Four in hospital after house explosion
Four people, including a child, have been taken to hospital following an explosion which destroyed three houses.
Emergency crews were called to the Violet Close area of Benwell, Newcastle, at about 00:45 BST.
Eyewitnesses told the BBC they heard a “very loud bang” and saw a “bright flash”, with one describing what she thought was an “explosion”.
Northern Gas Networks said its engineers were at the scene, with people being warned to avoid the area and keep their windows and doors shut.
Emergency services remain on site and road closures are in place on Buddle Road and the surrounding area, Northumbria Police said.
Pictures show three houses along the terrace completely destroyed, with roofs collapsed and firefighters working among the rubble.
Piles of debris can be seen on the street outside.
One eyewitness told BBC Radio Newcastle: “There was a big flash, and I was thinking ‘it’s an explosion’ and then after that I was thinking ‘is it a car or something?’ But after that there was the smell and I woke up my family and we went outside.
“It’s a massive shock, in this area there are many children, many families.”
Others said there was still a “heavy smell” of smoke in the area.
A fire service van marked “search dogs” was seen parked nearby, as were gas specialist engineers.
Meanwhile, vehicle recovery workers have taken away several damaged cars on low-loaders.
The North East Ambulance said it had treated four patients – three adults and one child – and taken them to hospital for further treatment.
Emergency teams worked through the night, and could be seen searching through the rubble.
Meanwhile, Newcastle City Council asked people to avoid the area and told those living nearby to stay indoors and keep windows closed “until further notice”.
PA Media
An evacuation centre has been set up nearby, and the Red Cross was seen handing out items including mobile phone chargers and food.
The West End Women and Girls Centre said anyone who had been evacuated was welcome to stay at the centre for food, drinks or just a warm place.
Additional reporting by Rebecca O’Neill and Peter Harris.
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