North End gas explosion causes neighbours to flee their house’s

A major emergency response is underway in Portsmouth, after a gas explosion has forced neighbours to flee their houses.

Firefighters from Cosham, Portchester, Southsea, Havant and Emsworth are currently tackling the blaze which has seen plumes of smoke blowing east across the city.

The explosion happened shortly after 01.40 pm at a property in Nelson Avenue, North End, Portsmouth.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has been scrambled to the incident, along with paramedics from South Central Ambulance Service.

Its believed that there was occupants in the property at the time of the explosion, neighbours have said that there was an almighty bang then heard smashing glass as the windows blew out.

Nearby roads have been closed including Gladys Avenue and roads leading to Gladys Avenue from London Road.

More to follow.