'Gas explosion' rocks Laleham street

Sep 5 2008 By Steve Bax & Ed Saunt

Explosion in Lalelam

Explosion in Laleham

Sep 9 2008

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Fifteen people were evacuated from their homes following a gas explosion at a bungalow in Greene Fielde End, Laleham.

The residents took refuge at Berryscroft Court sheltered home and a 47-year-old man was later airlifted to Broomfield Hospital in Essex, which has a specialist burns unit.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 1.17pm and cordoned off the road, while the National Grid was sent in to turn off the gas. A property where the blast is thought to have originated has visible roof damage.

People living on the Arnold Road estate reported hearing a blast - and shudders could be felt up to a mile away.

Anthony Osborne of Carlyle Road said: "It was like a bomb going off - I felt the whole house shake."

Nathalie Davey, 30, of Greene Fielde End, added: "I was inside and I heard an explosion, it was like the noise of a thunderstorm but much longer, so I knew something was wrong. I looked out the window and saw fire coming from the bungalows window and that the roof was damaged.

"There was no smoke though, just fire. I called the fire service, they came really quickly. I just hoped that no-one was inside."

A police spokesman said: "Surrey Police units remain at the scene and are liaising closely with residents and the other emergency services attending. Surrey Police are investigating the cause of the incident.’

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Picture by Carl Davey