Gas explosion causes fire to rip through Newhey terrace

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Six adults and children have been taken to hospital after fire ripped through a row of houses following a gas explosion in Newhey on Tuesday night (26 February).

Firefighters were called at 10.39pm to a fire in a terraced house on Lilac Avenue, which had spread to four neighbouring properties.

Six people - three adults and three children - were taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.

Residents from five neighbouring houses were evacuated.

 

 

Ten fire engines initially responded to the scene, using eight breathing apparatus, two hose reels and a covering jet to contain the fire, with an aerial platform being used during the early hours to fight the fire from above.

Police and the North West Ambulance Service were also in attendance.

As of 7.30am on Wednesday (27 February), two fire engines were still on scene with covering jets being used to keep the fire under control. 

Work is ongoing to isolate the gas supply so firefighters can continue fighting the fire. 

A cordon remains in place.