A man suffered serious burns following a suspected gas explosion at a property in Longridge.

The incident happened this morning on Wheatley Drive and fire teams are advising people to avoid the area.

Police said a man has been taken to hospital and is said to be in a critical condition, whilst two other people suffered minor injuries.

Adjoining properties have been evacuated as a precaution.

A police spokesperson said: “Emergency services  attended and found a man with serious burn injuries.

"He was already out of the property when our officers arrived.

"He has been taken to hospital in a critical condition. Two other people have suffered minor injuries.

“One property has suffered significant damage and efforts are ongoing to make it safe. A small number of surrounding properties have been evacuated.

“A joint investigation will be launched in due course with our colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause and circumstances that led the suspected gas explosion.

“We are also working with other partners at the scene, including the local authority, the North West Ambulance Service and Cadent.

“Anyone with information is asked to email or call 101. Quote log 492 of 1st September 2024.”

The incident happened on Wheatley Drive

A Lancashire Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: “At 10:31 on 01 September, eight fire engines from Preston, Bamber Bridge, Penwortham, Longridge, Blackburn, Clitheroe, Leyland, Hyndburn and other specialist appliances including Urban Search and Rescue units, attended a reported gas explosion on Wheatley Drive, Longridge.

“Crews are likely to remain in attendance for some hours. Please avoid the area.”