A man who was critically injured in a suspected gas explosion in Longridge has died, according to a statement released by family.

A Facebook statement, issued by sister-in-law Emma Fenwick, confirmed Robert Anthony Fenwick died in hospital on Friday (September 6), almost a week since the incident which sent shockwaves across East Lancashire.

Emma said his two children now “need to come to terms” with his death and asked for the family to be given privacy to grieve.

The statement said: "It is with sad news that we inform you, Robert Anthony Fenwick passed away peacefully yesterday in hospital, with his family around him.

“We would appreciate [giving his immediate family time] to process this... his two young children and mother now need to come to terms with his passing.”

Officers were called to reports of an explosion, in Wheatley Drive, on Sunday, September 1.

A man in his 40s was found with serious burn injuries and was taken to Royal Preston Hospital. Two other people were treated for shock.

The property suffered significant damage and a small number of surrounding properties were evacuated.

A joint investigation between Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service remains ongoing to try to establish the cause and circumstances.

Police say there is nothing at this stage to suggest it is suspicious or that there was any third-party involvement.

A police spokesperson said: "We can confirm that a man injured in the suspected gas explosion has sadly passed away in hospital.

"Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time. The death is not suspicious."

Anyone with information is asked to call 1010 quoting log 492 of September 1.