High levels of natural gas found after fatal Bedford explosion

Bedfordshire Police say "increased levels of natural gas" have been found following a fatal explosion in Bedford.

One person died in the explosion yesterday, with a second taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Officers were called to Cleat Hill on Saturday (October 19th) to an explosion and fire at a residential property.

Homes were evacuated and will remain empty whilst investigations take place, with Bedfordshire Police saying they are still at the scene today.

A large amount of natural gas has been found, and is believed to have come from an underground source, not the nearby pipe network.

The area is currently under a no-fly zone, with a statement from Bedfordshire Police earlier reminding drone owners not to use them in the area.

Detective Chief Superintendent Zara Brown said: "Safety is our main priority, and so we are still advising for people to avoid the Cleat Hill area whilst work at the scene continues.

“We also want to remind any drone owners that the area is currently a no-fly zone.

“We know that residents of nearby properties want to get back into their homes as quickly as possible and we thank them for their continued support and patience.

“We are working closely with multiple partners as part of our investigation into the circumstances and our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the person who sadly died and the person who is being treated in hospital.”

A cordon and road closure remains in place following yesterday's explosion.

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