Ashford explosion: Two people seriously injured after blast rips through house in Kent
4 May 2021, 09:12 | Updated: 4 May 2021, 12:58
Firefighters tackle blaze following explosion at house in Kent
Seven people have been injured - two seriously - after an explosion ripped through a house in Kent.
Police, paramedics and firefighters were called to the blast in Willesborough, Ashford shortly before 8am on Tuesday.
Several people were trapped and had to be freed by emergency services.
Police say all residents are now accounted for.
Kent Police said two people were seriously injured and have been taken to a London hospital.
Five more people were treated for less serious injuries.
Firefighters have been tackling a blaze at the house that resulted from the explosion. Four fire engines were called to the scene.
Residents reported hearing a loud bang and feeling buildings shake in the area.
Chantal Weller, a local resident and journalism student, said she felt her house shake "like something had literally flown into the side of it".
The 20-year-old, who lives on the road adjacent to the house explosion, said: "There was a big shudder. I looked out the window and saw a lot of people looking down the road and looking worried.
"I walked out onto the street and could see lots of police cars whizzing past... there were people everywhere because of the school run."
She said the scene was "hectic" with people panicking.
An evacuation zone has been set up around the house, approximately 200m in each direction, she added.
The Salvation Army has set up a centre at a local village hall to provide support to those whose homes have been evacuated.
People have been urged to avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed.
The South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) confirmed ambulance crews including a Hazardous Area Response Team were in attendance.
