'The centre of our world': Family pay tribute to man killed in Clayton-le-Woods house explosion

The family of a man who died after an explosion in Clayton-le-Woods near Chorley have paid an emotional tribute to him.

Carl Whalley died after a fire tore through the property on Kirkby Avenue on Friday afternoon. His body was found by emergency services after a search.

Mr Whalley, who was 57, had suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene.

A joint investigation between Lancashire Police and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is now underway. Cadent, who supply gas to the property have released a statement to say the explosion was NOT caused by a gas leak. Jenny Moten, Director of Cadent’s North West Network said: “We can confirm that the gas mains and service pipes in the area are sound and did not contribute to or cause the explosion in Kirkby Avenue. The matter now lies with the police for further investigation".

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting log reference 0756 of October 15th. Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted 0800 555 111.