People have been evacuated from their West Cumbrian homes and three people have been taken to hospital after a suspected gas explosion.

It’s been reported there has been a suspected gas explosion at a home in Whitehaven.

Cumbria Police stated just after 4:23pm on Tuesday, December 31, they received a call about a suspected gas explosion.

Whitehaven councillor, Joseph Ghayouba, also posted on his official social media account hat he had been in contact with police following a suspected gas explosion.

He said: “I have spoken to the police about what is happening on Bransty I have been advised that it is a gas explosion on Hugh St. They have declared it as a potential major incident and residents are beinf evacuated. No word on casualties or anything yet.”

Following this, Mr Ghayouba then alleged there had been two injuries “not believed to be life threatening” and added several premises in the area had been evacuated as a precaution.

In a statement Cumbria Police said: “Emergency services are currently in attendance following an incident in Hugh Street in Whitehaven this afternoon (31 Dec).

“At 4.23pm a call was received reporting a suspected gas explosion at a residential address in the street.

“Emergency services, including Police, Fire and NWAS have attended and three casualties – two men and a woman – have been taken from the scene to hospital by ambulance having suffered serious injuries. 

“Currently, all known persons are accounted for. However, work to confirm this remains on-going.

“People are asked to avoid the area whilst emergency services personnel carry out their work at the scene.”

The Herdwick News has contacted Cumbria Police and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service for further information.