After a suspected gas explosion in Heysham, a child died and four people were injured, two of whom were seriously injured, according to Lancashire Police.

As the explosion happened  that destroyed up to three terraced homes, a major incident has been declared.

According to Lancashire Police, they were called to the site of the explosion at 2.40 a.m. following news that "a number" of houses on Mallowdale Avenue had collapsed.

“We are currently at the scene of a suspected gas explosion on Mallowdale Avenue, Heysham,” the force said in a tweet.

“At 2.40 a.m., we were notified that a number of houses on the road had collapsed.
 

“Our officers, along with colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue and the North West Ambulance Service, are on the scene.

“A protective cordon has been erected, and people in the area have been evacuated.”