Huge explosion tears through house with emergency crews on the scene - latest updates

Firefighters are on the scene after a 'house explosion' in Lancashire. Fire crews raced to Wheatley Drive in Longridge, near Preston, shortly after 10:30am this morning.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service say they are responding to a 'reported gas explosion.' Eight fire engines are currently at the scene. People have been asked to avoid the area.

LFRS said: "At 10:31 on 01 September, eight fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge, Penwortham, Longridge, Blackburn, Clitheroe, Leyland, Hyndburn and other specialist appliances including Urban Search and Rescue units, attended a reported gas explosion on Wheatley Drive, Longridge.

"Crews are likely to remain in attendance for some hours. Please avoid the area."

This is a breaking news story and we will bring you updates as we get them in the live blog below

Staff from Cadent, who oversee the gas mains network, are on the scene and are involved in the investigation into the incident, which police and the fire service have described as a "suspected gas explosion"

Neighbours are describing a “gut wrenching bang” which rocked the houses in neighbouring streets.
One woman told me “it was so loud I thought it had come from my own house.”

This incident has now been reduced to three pumps, who remain in attendance alongside Urban Search and Rescue colleagues.

Road closures are likely to remain in place for several hours. Please continue to avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/13NfOPWXHQ

Rachel says the windows at the house next door have also been damaged in the explosion

Neighbours have been evacuated from their homes and a cordon is in place around the area

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service say

We are flying a drone in the area to assist with our emergency response. Please do not