Bury explosion: Woman’s body found after house collapses

Two people, including child, were also taken to hospital as cause is investigated

The house in the Greater Manchester town was destroyed by an explosion, and five other homes were evacuated (BBC News)

A woman’s body has been pulled from the rubble of a house that collapsed following a late-night explosion in Bury.

The unnamed woman was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency workers found her, police said on Thursday morning.

Two others – another woman and a child – were rushed to hospital following the blast in the Greater Manchester town’s Ramsbottom area at around 9.20pm on Wednesday night.

Five other homes were evacuated.

"There was this huge noise, like a bomb had been dropped in the middle of the street,” one resident, Daniel Peace, said.

Speaking to Sky News, he added: “I expected to look out the window and see a crater or something, it was unbelievable.”

As of Thursday morning, it remained unclear exactly what caused the explosion, although residents reported a strong smell of gas in the air throughout the night.

Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury Council, said in a tweet: “The council and emergency services are currently supporting residents. The community response has been incredible as always. Thank you.”

Police, fire crews and ambulances all attended the scene in the area’s East View.

North West Ambulance Service said one woman and a younger female were taken to hospital. Neither of them are thought to be seriously injured.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said it had sent three fire engines and a number of support units to the scene.

Electricity North West said it had cut power supplies to 60 properties following the incident.