TWO men have appeared in court charged in connection with an explosion which destroyed an Indian takeaway in Blackburn.
Majid Hussain, 23, of Montague Street, Blackburn, is charged with conspiring with Zaheer Iqbal Ali to commit arson at the Heena takeaway in Bank Top being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.
Hussain, who was hospitalised after the blast, which destroyed the shop and a neighbouring property causing £400,000 worth of damage, was sent on bail to Preston Crown Court.
His co-accused, Zaheer Ali, 23, of Lancaster Place, Blackburn, was originally remanded in custody by the magistrates, but was granted bail by a judge at Preston Crown Court.
Conditions of his bail include residence at an address in Brierfield, not to enter Blackburn and not to associate with his co-accused.
The takeaway collapsed in the explosion on May 23 which also wrecked the adjoining plumbers merchants Joshua Grimshaw Ltd.
A plea and directions hearing was set to take place on Wednesday, August 8 at Preston Crown Court.
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