Two people in hospital after 'major gas explosion' at block of flats in Bedford
Two people in are in hospital - one with serious injuries.
Last updated 4th Jul 2022
Emergency services are responding to an explosion at Redwood Grove in Bedford that started this morning.
The fire, at a three storey block of 20 flats, has engulfed the whole building and has caused a large portion of the roof to collapse, Bedfordshire Police have said.
The police have confirmed two people have been taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, one with serious injuries.
An Emergency Assistance Centre has been set up at The John Bunyan Centre in Bedford, for people who have been evacuated and need support.
An adjacent block of flats has also been evacuated but the emergency services said they're working as quickly as possible to get people back in their homes.
Footage on social media, appeared to show flames coming out of the roof and plumes of smoke filling the air.
Adam Fisher said he heard a "huge explosion" before witnessing "an inferno" on Redwood Grove in Bedford.
The 37-year-old sales worker, whose office is nearby, told the PA news agency: "A huge explosion heard - everyone went to our work car park to see what was happening.
"Our building is adjacent to the apartment complex - immediately an inferno (was) visible, huge smoke cloud billowing, people screaming and people frantically calling for emergency services."
Mohammad Yasin MP for Bedford and Kempston has said in a statement that "at this stage all we know is that there has been a major gas explosion" but a "full investigation into the cause will need to take place."
He added, "my priority and focus right now is to do all I can to help and support people through this awful event. Thank you to all the emergency services for responding so quickly. The Council will of course be supporting people with temporary accommodation and housing support and it’s vital that this takes place quickly."
Saying finally, "my thoughts are with all those affected and particularly with those injured."
People are being asked to avoid the area and keep any doors and windows closed.