Fire investigators still on scene after Stevenage house explosion last night as community rallies round

Much of the house in Cavell Walk, Stevenage, has been reduced to rubble. Picture: @Cave_Art_Films (Image: Archant)

These pictures show the utter devastation caused by an explosion which occurred at a house in Cavell Walk at about 9.20pm last night.

Fire crews were on the scene within five minutes of receiving the call, and the blaze was brought under control by 2am.

Neighbours have been shocked by the incident, which has left a man in hospital with serious injuries – believed to be burns.

A cordon has been put up at the entrance to the cul-de-sac in Cavell Walk, Stevenage. Picture: Nick Gill (Image: Archant)

It is understood the man was not inside the house when the explosion happened, but he had gone in to rescue his dogs.

He was rescued by firefighters after being semi-covered under rubble. Nobody else was hurt.

The cause of the fire is being treated as ‘unexplained’, but a possible gas leak is a line of enquiry.

As the devastation caused by the explosion becomes apparent, members of the community are already rallying round to help those affected.

A Facebook group has been set up to co-ordinate an effort to help, with more than 200 people liking the page so far. Click here to access the page.

Members of the public are asked to stay clear of Cavell Walk while the emergency services continue to work at the scene.