'Massive explosion' rocks Scots homes

A massive explosion that left homes shaking 'ferociously' and shattered windows in the Kincaidston area of Ayr.

It's been confirmed that the blast originated from a house on Gorse Park, with surrounding homes being evacuated by emergency services as they look to make the area safe.

It's now been confirmed that two adults and two children have been taken to hospital following the incident.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Ambulance Service said: "We received a call at 19:16hrs to attend an incident at Gorse Park, Ayr, alongside Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

"We dispatched a number of resources to the scene, including three specialist operations vehicles, six ambulances, and an air ambulance.

"Three patients were transported by road to Crosshouse hospital."

Police in Ayrshire have also confirmed their attendance and in a statement on twitter said: "We are currently in attendance following a report of an explosion at a property on Gorse Park in Ayr shortly after 7.10 pm on Monday, 18 October.

"Emergency services are currently at the scene and we would advise people to avoid the area at the present time."

Scottish Fire and Rescue released a statement on Twitter at 9.17pm.

South Ayrshire Council have now also opened up Queen Margaret Academy for for anyone who was displaced by the explosion.

In a statement on social media it said: "The Council has staff on site at Queen Margaret Academy where a rest centre has been established to support those directly affected by tonight’s incident.

"The Council also has teams on site supporting emergency repairs where possible for those affected.

"The Council works under the direction of emergency services in these circumstances and stands ready to support our communities in any way we can."

Since the explosion politicians from across the board have been offering their condolences to anyone affect.

South of Scotland MSP Emma Harper said: "This is tragic to hear.

"I know it's just happened and we need to let emergency services do their job.

"I want to send my thoughts and wishes to everyone involved and as always I thank the emergency services for their swift response."

Also reacting was South of Scotland MSP Brian Whittle, he said: "Obviously it's a devastation for the area and a devastation for those families involved.

"We're hoping that there's as few a causalities as possible.

"Our thoughts are also to the emergency services that are attending.

"We're waiting for news and we're hoping the devastation isn't as bad as it actually looks and hope there's no loss of life as well."

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