Four people have been injured after an explosion demolished a house in Yate.
Emergency services raced to reports of a serious incident in Lancaster Road at 6.50am this morning (Tuesday).
A mid-terraced property was completely destroyed in an explosion, believed to have been caused by gas. Two adjoining homes were also damaged.
Four people sustained injuries – three of which were taken to hospital with wounds that are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing. A fourth person suffered minor injuries.
Numerous nearby homes have been evacuated while 999 crews, and the gas company, work at the scene.
In a statement, Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 6:53am to reports of a gas explosion in a residential home on Lancaster Road, Yate this morning.
“The explosion caused a fire, which has now been safely extinguished.
“We’ve put a cordon in place and a number of people have been evacuated as a precaution, they are being supported at the scene.
“Three people with non-life threatening injuries have been taken to hospital, and a fourth person has been treated by the ambulance service at the scene.
“Local people are asked to avoid the area while we deal with the incident.”
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police added: “Officers are supporting Avon Fire & Rescue Service at the scene of a suspected gas explosion in Lancaster Road, in Yate, at 6.50am this morning (Tuesday 29 April).
“Three people have been taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening or life changing.
“A fourth person has sustained minor injuries and was attended to by the ambulance service.
“A cordon has been put in place and a number of properties have been evacuated. A refuge centre has been set up at a nearby public house.
“Members of the public are being advised to avoid the area and keep the roads clear while emergency services are at the scene.”