Bury gas explosion: Pictures show damage to house destroyed

Dramatic pictures show the extent of the damage to a house which is said to have been 'destroyed' following an explosion in Bury.

A woman in her 70s has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries after the incident on Nelson Street in the Fishpool area of the town earlier today (Wednesday).

There is a huge emergency response in the area including fire crews and police with a 200-metre cordon in place. Local primary school St Luke's was evacuated and has now closed for the day.

READ MORE: LIVE: School evacuated as woman taken to hospital with serious injuries amid 'explosion' at house - latest updates

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Councillor Tamoor Tariq, who represents Redvales Ward, described the incident as a 'gas explosion.' However, the gas emergency service Cadent, who are also at the scene, have said it is 'too early to say what caused this.'

The latest images from the scene show the extent of the damage that has been caused. The entire upper floor of one property on the row of terraces appears to have been blown out.

The two properties on either side have also suffered damage with bricks having fallen off, parts of the roof missing and some of the inside having been exposed.

Councillor Tariq said 'all other people affected are taking shelter with neighbours, family or friends'. In an update posted to his social media in the last hour, he said: "The house affected is in an extremely bad state.

"Following the explosion the house was destroyed with the strong flames from the fire. Both neighbouring properties have been damaged too."

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said 'multiple' fire engines are at the scene, together with specialist rescue units. They