Don’t miss a thing! Sign up to the Daily Star’s newsletter

We have more newsletters

A huge explosion has destroyed an entire house in Greater London.

The devastating scene happened in Thornton Heath, and was so loud that it woke the entire street.

One eyewitness, who did not wish to be named, said they were woken by "a massive bang" shortly after 7.30am this morning (August 8).

READ MORE: 'Explosion' heard as huge smoke plume rises near Heathrow as houses evacuated

Emergency services were soon on the scene but it remains unclear if anyone was inside the house at the time of the explosion.

Six fire engines, and 40 firefighters, were on sight dealing with the fire in South London, and the London Fire Brigade confirmed that 13 calls had been made to them from locals reporting the fire.

Merton Police are also in attendance, they confirmed on Twitter.

The also asked that people avoid the area so that emergency services can deal with the scene.

A spokesman said in a statement: "Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters have been called to a fire and explosion on Galpin's Road in Thornton Heath.

Were you there this morning and did you hear or see the explosion? Email [email protected]

"A terraced house has collapsed following an explosion.

"The Brigade's 999 Control Officers have taken 13 calls to the incident – the Brigade was called at 0708.

"Fire crews from Norbury, Mitcham, West Norwood, Woodside and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

"The cause of the fire and explosion is not known at this time."

Local residents have been commenting on the shocking incident on Facebook.

One wrote: "The bang frightened the life out of me.

• 

  Robber tries to steal from vape shop owner but ends up getting stabbed seven times

"I'm opposite Galpin's, they have the helicopter circling and can hear sirens."

And another added: "I don’t even live close but I thought I heard a massive bang around that time and couldn’t figure out what it could be. I know sound travels.

"I hope the residents are all safe."

According to local news sources, roads in the area are now closed including Westmorland Way in both directions, and South Lodge Avenue to Northumberland Gardens.

Local councillor for the Pollards Hill Ward, Martin Whelton tweeted: "There has been a serious fire explosion incident in Galpins Road, Thornton Heath in Pollards Hill ward.

• 

  Armed police kill 'out of control' dog after two people attacked and bitten in street

"The emergency services are at the scene.

"Hope everyone is okay but at this stage information is limited."

The area of Galpin's Road is right next to a children's playground and a local park.

It is not known whether or not the explosion caused any damage to the surrounding areas.

The Daily Star has contacted the London Fire Brigade for an update.

To get more stories from Daily Star delivered straight to your inbox sign up to one of our free newsletters here .

READ MORE:

• For more of the latest news from the world of the Daily Star, check out our homepage.

• Cornwall shark attack boat sets sail with brave customers days after horror bite

• Tangled paraglider sent into tailspin as he plummets to ground without parachute

• Bloke who thought he'd die trapped in lift for seven hours gets £25 compensation

• Struggling foot fetish actor 'bullied into selling crack cocaine' to fund gambling woes

• Breaking News
• Fire
• Police
• In the News

Source: Read Full Article