Gas explosion destroys homes in Salford

A huge operation is underway by the emergency services after a gas fire tore through a row of houses in Greater Manchester.

Up to five homes have been affected by the blast which happened just after 7am on Tuesday morning in Merlin Road.

One home has been brought to the ground with a number of others in the Irlam district of Salford being badly damaged in the incident.

It is thought that around 10 people have been injured in the explosion where search and rescue teams are still looking for any people trapped below the rubble. Those requiring treatment have been taken to either Wythenshawe Hospital or Hope Hospital, with some being in a serious condition.

Tony Lander from Greater Manchester Fire Service, speaking to Sky News, said:

“We have a dog sniffing away to see if they can find any further casualties.

“What we will also be doing now is paring back the debris where we can and put in devices down into the holes and crevices to see if we can hear anybody.

“We still have gas leaking around the property, so it is still a hazardous situation.”

A number of roads in the area have been cordoned off by police, while the gas board is working to ensure the supply of gas to Merlin Road is turned off.