Emergency services remain at the scene of an explosion near Stockport which led to a man being airlifted to hospital. Residents on Ollersett Avenue, in New Mills, woke to their street 'shaking' following an explosion at around 8am today (November 14).
Twelve properties were evacuated in the area, with 39 people forced out of their homes. A man, believed to be in his 70s, was airlifted to hospital following the explosion. Eyewitnesses described how he had been 'dragged' out of the wreckage by neighbours.
An investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway. A large emergency services presence has remained on the street this evening, although the operation from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has been scaled down.
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In its latest statement tonight, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "A cordon remains in place as emergency services continue to work with partners at the scene of an explosion at a bungalow on Ollersett Avenue, New Mills, earlier today. Emergency Planning are supporting evacuated residents who are unable to return to their properties this evening.
"All those who remain evacuated have been provided with temporary accommodation overnight while the incident continues." The cause of the explosion has not yet been confirmed.
A press conference this afternoon heard that the circumstances of the explosion are not thought to be suspicious. Authorities also said that not all evacuated residents will be able to return tonight, with affected residents asked to attend New Mills Leisure Centre.
East Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed it was called out to a 'medical emergency' at 8.10am. A spokesperson added: "We sent a paramedic in an ambulance car, two crewed ambulances and the air ambulance was also in attendance. One patient was transported to Sheffield Northern General Hospital via air ambulance."
