National Grid: Oldham explosion 'not caused by a leak from its gas pipes'

"The company can confirm that the incident was not caused by a leak from its gas distribution pipes. The Health and Safety Executive was on site during the testing of the gas pipes which took place earlier today.

This now concludes the work of National Grid at the scene, but it will continue to co-operate with any Police investigation.

Five homes on Buckley Street were extensively damaged during the incident and National Grid has not been able to gain access to carry out checks on internal pipes, meters and gas appliances.

Greater Manchester Police has now taken control of the site and are treating it as a crime scene.

National Grid's thoughts remain with the families of those who have suffered a loss or injury in the incident.