Man killed in major explosion which destroyed house

A man has been killed in a major explosion that reduced a home to rubble.

Nottinghamshire Police confirmed the body of a man, in his 50s, was found in the wreckage as they told the BBC that emergency services treated him, but were unable to save him, and he died at the scene.

A major incident was confirmed following the explosion in Worksop last night (12 April). Multiple properties on John Street were evacuated as specialist urban search and rescue teams were deployed to account for all residents.

Chief Inspector Clive Collings said: "This is an extremely serious incident that has led to a man's untimely death.

"The man's family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

"I have no doubt that this incident will have come as a shock to the community in Worksop."

The building has been 'significantly damaged'. (Danny Lawson/PA Wire)

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said it received its first report about the incident in John Street at 7.39pm on Saturday.

“The building involved in this explosion has been significantly damaged. Structural engineers will be assessing the situation later today,” the statement read.

The public are still advised to avoid the area.

The nearby Crown Place Community Centre was opened as a place of safety for residents with the major incident declared late last night.

Anyone who has any additional information is asked to contact 101 quoting incident 612 of April 12.

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