25 Jun 2014
Fire crews were forced to evacuate businesses and homes in Scunthorpe on Tuesday after a large gas explosion.
According to the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, workmen fractured a gas main while carrying out road works on Ashby Road in the North Lincolnshire town.
One man had to be rescued when he was trapped by the blast. He was taken to hospital by air ambulance after suffering a broken thigh bone and is said to be in a stable condition.
The leak was isolated at 3.45pm and some people were allowed to go back to their homes and business premises.
However, a 200m cordon was put around some homes and businesses as the explosion created a large cloud of gas. Residents took shelter at the nearby Pods Leisure Centre.
Ashby Road is getting back to normal, Humberside Police said, despite the fact the road was closed overnight at the junction with Lloyds Avenue.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed of the blast, which is being investigated by police.
Copyright Press Association 2014