Police Investigate Leeds Explosion

An explosion at a flat in Leeds last night appears to have been caused by fireworks, say police.

An investigation is underway to establish the circumstances of the explosion at Clark Mount in East End Park.

No-one was injured but damage was caused to a ground floor flat. Police enquiries suggest a bag containing fireworks had been thrown through an open window.

Emergency services had been called at 6.53pm last night after neighbours reported hearing loud bangs.

Residents were evacuated for around three hours and army bomb disposal experts were called in to examine the bag as a precaution.

The area was declared safe at 10pm.

People in the area said it was a shock for a normally quiet place.

Audrey Grunwell's lived at Clark Mount for over 30 years.

"Well I was upstairs and the window was open. I heard this horrendous explosion, about two seconds after it another explosion, I just saw smoke pouring out. Police came and said 'grab what you need to, we're evacuating you' - I still had my slippers on! There looked to be about six streets that'd been evacuated."

Mr Kundola works in a shop 100 metres from the explosion, he says the experience was quite surreal.

"It's like these American movies.. Police were here in heavy force. People were fascinated, first time it's ever happened since I've been here 25 years...It shocked me because you don't expect it in this area. When you're born here, bred here, why do you want to do that? Everybody's talking about it, they're all shocked to here what's gone on."

Acting Detective Inspector James Entwistle, of Leeds District CID, said: "The nature of this incident is clearly a cause for concern and we are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances and trace those responsible.

"There were a number of people in the property at the time but thankfully no-one was injured although the consequences could have been much worse.

"We have already spoken to a number of witnesses but we would like to hear from anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the time leading up to the incident or who has any information that could assist the investigation."