Police said a woman aged in her 70s had been rushed to hospital with “serious injuries” following the blast. People living nearby have also been forced to flee their homes.
By Daniel Binns, news reporter
A primary school has been evacuated after a suspected gas explosion at a nearby house in Greater Manchester.
Tamoor Tariq, a local councillor, said staff and children had fled St Luke’s Church of England Primary School following the blast at a property “just yards away” in the Fishpool area of Bury.
Police said a woman in her 70s had been taken to hospital with “serious injuries”.
In a statement posted on X just after 12.15pm, Mr Tariq said: “Heartbreaking to share there has been a gas explosion in the last few minutes right across from my house.
“I understand everyone has been taken to a place of safety and emergency services are doing all possible to deal with this awful situation.”
He added in a later update that no one had died, according to officials at the scene.
“The house directly affected is in an extremely bad state following the explosion [and] the house was destroyed by the strong flames from the fire,” he added.
“Both neighbouring properties have been damaged too.”
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said multiple crews had been dispatched to the scene.
A spokesperson added: “Residents in the area are advised to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the scene while crews carry out their work.”
Bury Council said its officials were aware of the incident and also urged those living nearby to keep their windows closed.
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A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “Emergency services are currently responding to reports of an explosion at a property on Nelson Street in the Fishpool area of Bury.
“At this stage, a woman in her 70s has been taken to hospital with serious injuries. A 200m cordon is in place around the property and neighbouring homes.
“Local residents and the community will be informed if they need to take any further action.”
Mr Tariq said the school’s electricity supply had been affected by the blast and subsequent fire, and that all parents had been informed.
The school is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day.
There have been no reports of any other people being injured.
Staff at nearby Bury Football Club have offered support to those affected.
The club posted on social media: “For anyone seeking a place to be this afternoon following the incident close to Gigg Lane, the club is open to assist and offer a brew to those effected.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
