Emergency services rushed to the scene at Kirkby Avenue at around 1.30pm. Lancashire Police have put a safety cordon in place and nearby residents have been evacuated from their homes. Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform are also at the scene, with those nearby being advised to keep their doors and windows shut. It is not yet known if there have been any injuries.

       Lancashire Police said in a statement: "We are currently at the scene of a suspected gas explosion on Kirkby Avenue, Clayton-le-Woods.

       "We were called at around 1.30pm today (Friday, October 15) to a report a house had collapsed.

       "Our officers are at the scene along with our colleagues from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the Ambulance Service.

       "A safety cordon has been put in place and nearby residents have been evacuated.

       "Road closures have been put in place and people are being advised to avoid the area."

       Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) said: "Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform are in attendance at an explosion involving a house on Kirkby Avenue in Clayton-le-Woods.

       "Please close windows and doors if you’re nearby to avoid being affected by any smoke.

       "Colleagues from Lancashire Police and North West Ambulance Service are also in attendance.

       "A number of neighbouring properties have been evacuated and a safety cordon has been established.

       "Road closures are also in place and people are advised to avoid the area."

       LFRS also confirmed the urban search and rescue team, as well as search and rescue dogs, are assisting.

       The North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) said it Hazardous Area Response Team is in attendance.

       NWAS tweeted: "We’re supporting the ongoing incident.

       "Our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) is currently on the scene, along with a MERIT doctor, an ambulance and an operational commander."

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