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Two injured after house explosion | Two injured after house explosion |
(10 minutes later) | |
Two pensioners have made an "amazing escape" with only minor injuries after their West Lothian house exploded. | |
The front and rear walls of the semi-detached house in Loaninghill Park, Uphall, blew in and the roof was blown off shortly before 0745 BST. | The front and rear walls of the semi-detached house in Loaninghill Park, Uphall, blew in and the roof was blown off shortly before 0745 BST. |
Specialist fire crews were sent to the scene and gas emergency services were also contacted. | Specialist fire crews were sent to the scene and gas emergency services were also contacted. |
The 85-year-old woman and 86-year-old man were taken to a neighbour's house before going to St John's Hospital. | The 85-year-old woman and 86-year-old man were taken to a neighbour's house before going to St John's Hospital. |
Between 20 and 40 elderly residents nearby have been evacuated to Uphall Community Centre in Strathbrock Place. | Between 20 and 40 elderly residents nearby have been evacuated to Uphall Community Centre in Strathbrock Place. |
The road has been closed and an investigation is underway. | The road has been closed and an investigation is underway. |
Gordon Fisher, of Lothian and Borders Police Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The front of the house is right across the front garden. | |
"It is an incredible escape when you see the scene of devastation up there. | |
"For two elderly people to walk away from that, to be conscious is incredible - it's an amazing escape." | |
He said an early investigation pointed to a gas explosion and it appeared the house would have to be demolished. | |
"We don't have a time for when the evacuated residents will be allowed back into their homes," he added. |