THREE people have been taken to hospital after an explosion and fire at a house in Yate.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service says the three people who were taken to hospital are believed to have suffered non life-threatening injuries in the incident, which happened shortly before 7am today in Lancaster Road, off Wellington Road in the north of the town.
A fourth person was treated by paramedics for minor injuries.
A fire service spokesperson said nine appliances and crews were at the scene.
Cordons have been placed around the house and immediate area.
Avoid the area
The spokesperson said: “We’re advising people to avoid the area while we bring the incident under control.
“Three casualties with what we believe to be non life-threatening injuries were conveyed to hospital.”
The cause of the fire has yet to be established but police say it is suspected to have been started by a gas explosion.
Residents on a local Facebook group reported hearing a loud bang with one saying: “my house shook”.
An Avon & Somerset police spokesperson said: “Officers are supporting Avon Fire and Rescue Service at the scene of a suspected gas explosion in Lancaster Road, in Yate, at 6.50am this morning.
“Three people have been taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening or life changing.
“A fourth person has sustained minor injuries and was seen to by the ambulance service.
“A cordon has been put in place and a number of properties have been evacuated. A refuge centre has been set up at a nearby public house.
“Members of the public are being advised to avoid the area and keep the roads clear while emergency services are at the scene.”
Top picture: One house was destroyed and others badly damaged in the explosion