House destroyed in horror explosion as emergency services scrambled to blast

02 December 2023 , 12:46

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The damage to the houses at the top end of Holt Road (Image: Liverpool Echo)

An explosion has destroyed a home and seen two people taken to hospital, while neighbouring properties have all been evacuated.

The condition of the pair injured in this morning's blast in Holt Road, Tranmere, remains unclear. They are understood to be an elderly couple who suffered burns. Fire crews arrived at 7.47am, though the two-storey terrace's occupants had already got out. Anyone living in and around the street were told to vacate as firefighters battled a blaze in a first floor bedroom.

A total of four fire engines and an aerial appliance were in use at the height of the incident. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze was extinguished at 9.26am and a building inspector was requested due to the possible unsafe structures on either side of the affected property. The fire service says an investigation is underway to establish the cause.

Four fire crews were battling the blaze as nearby residents were evacuated (@MERSEYFIRE)

Personnel from gas company Cadent were also called to the scene. Gas and electricity has been isolated and North West Ambulance Service are remaining on site as a precautionary measure. Wirral Council are arranging temporary accommodation for residents of evacuated properties. Staff are also working to remove debris now the fire is out.

Worried residents were still gathered on the street at just after midday, with one telling a Liverpool Echo reporter: "There were about 10 of us, screaming down the phone [to the fire service] to get them here." The Wirral Globe reports the occupants are believed to be an elderly couple and were taken to hospital with burns. The extent of their injuries is not yet known.

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Emergency crews at the scene (Liverpool Echo)

A fire spokesperson said: "The incident has been scaled down to two fire engines. Multi agency colleagues continue to monitor the situation at scene. This is an ongoing incident please avoid the area." They later added: "Fire crews have continued to hotspot the affected area at the property the incident originated. This has now concluded and fire fighting activities have ceased. The local authority are in attendance to remove the debris pile. An investigation is underway, however, it could take some time to establish cause."

Merseyside Police are reported to have now left the scene. The Mirror has contacted the force for further information.

Ryan Merrifield