Gas explosion in the Wirral injures 34 people and DECIMATES dance studio
A GAS explosion in the Wirral, Merseyside, has injured at least 34 people, including two seriously, and completely destroyed a dance studio.
Devastation caused by huge explosion in Wirral seen in daylight
The “significant building” in the town of New Ferry, Merseyside, has been destroyed and tremors were felt as far away as North Wales.
The two seriously injured victims have been rushed to Aintree hospital in Liverpool while the other 30, described as “walking wounded” were treated at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside and the Countess of Chester.
Fifteen of those hurt were transported to hospital via ambulances, while the other 15 made their own way there.
Firefighters sift through the debris after a massive gas blast
Am on scene in New Ferry. A very serious situation. Please stay away if you can, let police and emergency services do their job. Thanks #fb
— Alison McGovern (@Alison_McGovern) March 25, 2017
Paramedics unload oxygen tanks following explosion in Wirral
There were a huge number of paramedics and emergency services at the scene.
One local described it as "like a war zone".
Houses and windows were reportedly left shaking after the explosion.
An enormous "bang" was heard across Merseyside because of the gas explosion.
Wirral South MP, Alison McGovern, is on the scene and she said it was a "very serious" situation.
Paramedics at the scene were seen unloading oxygen tanks.
The area was placed on lockdown to cars as people at the scene report a smell of gas or smoke.
Local Capital FM radio station tweeted that a building had been flattened with other buildings around it suffering damage.
Some took refuge in a nearby church, while others rushed to a local pub for towels and first aid supplies.
Videos from the scene depict rubble and debris scattered across the ground
Nearby buildings were visibly damaged by the blast
Windows of nearby buildings were completely shattered by the shockwaves.
Councillor Warren Ward said: “I am aware that there has been an incident in the Port Sunlight/ Bebington area - Merseyside Police and Wirral Borough Council are aware and officers are on scene.”