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Castleford residents forced to leave homes due to gas explosion Castleford residents' 'lucky escape' in gas explosion
(about 2 hours later)
Residents have been forced to leave their homes in Castleford, West Yorkshire after a gas explosion. A gas explosion which shook houses in Castleford, West Yorkshire, has forced residents to leave their homes.
Emergency services were called to a row of houses on Rhodes Street in Hightown shortly before 0130 BST on Friday. Firefighters were dealing with a house fire when the explosion occurred on Rhodes Street, Hightown, shortly before 0130 BST on Friday.
Fire crews dealing with a house fire were at the scene when the explosion occurred. Two officers suffered minor injuries. Emergency crews used ladders to rescue two people.
The area was sealed off and ladders were used to rescue two people. Two fire officers suffered minor injuries in the blast. An investigation is being carried out into the cause. One theory is the theft of overhead power cabling.
A nearby resident said it was a "miracle" that no-one was injured more seriously. The electricity supply to 63 homes was interrupted and gas supplies to several streets have been cut off as the investigation continues.
'Lucky escape'
Local resident, Darren Taylor said people had a lucky escape: "It felt like I'd jumped off the floor a few inches.
"It was amazing how they all got out safely and no-one got hurt. It could have been a lot worse."
Wakefield Council is working with emergency services and helping those evacuated from their homes.
One family is being looked after by social services, while a further 36 people are staying with relatives and friends.
Leader of the council, Councillor Peter Box, said: "The council responded in line with our emergency plans and we are doing all are can to support people affected and to make sure the buildings are made safe."