Wishaw explosion: Blast leaves two people in critical condition in Scotland

Newmains Pastoral Centre, the site of the alleged explosion (Google Maps)

A man and a woman are in a critical condition after an explosion in Wishaw, southern Scotland.

Emergency services were at the scene on Bonkle Road and nearby properties were evacuated after what is thought to be an accident at a former convent in Newmains.

Photos posted to social media show the road being sealed off by police, with locals saying they are not being allowed through.

One witness told The Sun: "I was walking back my dog behind the convent just after 1.30pm when I heard the loudest explosion I have ever heard.

“I think it was a gas explosion or something. The ground moved under my feet.

“I heard people shouting and running out of their houses to see what was happening.

“And then ambulances and police started arriving.”

Neil Gray, local MP for Airdrie and Shotts, said: “I am shocked to hear about the explosion in Bonkle Road today.

“I have contacted Police Scotland and will keep in touch with them for updates as things develop.

“I am available should anyone need my help and my thoughts and best wishes for a speedy recovery go to those who have been injured in the blast.”

One witness told the newspaper they had heard "a generator exploded with three people working inside".

A joint investigation between Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive is ongoing and the circumstances are not believed to be suspicious.