AN explosion at a derelict day centre in Blackburn was heard across the neighbourhood as flames engulfed the building.

Firefighters were called to the scene in New Wellington Street after receiving reports that children were trapped inside as the blaze took hold – but no-one was found.

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The service has concluded that the fire was started after a propane gas canister was set alight and consequently a police investigation has been launched.

Two fire crews from Blackburn and one from Darwen were called to the incident shortly after 6pm on Tuesday.

Crew manager John Riley said: “This could easily have had fatal consequences for the persons who placed the canister there and also the firefighters who entered the building to look for the reported missing children.

“Apparently children are regularly seen inside this building and have pulled the shutters off the windows several times.

“It is important that parents know where their children are and what they are up to. This could have had a very tragic outcome. Our advice is not to place any pressurised containers on fires especially ones containing flammable gas, the outcome can be catastrophic.

“Deliberate fires can cost lives. They also put a strain on fire service resources that may be required elsewhere.”

On arrival the crews found the building heavily smoke-logged. Six firefighters wearing full breathing apparatus were sent into the building to conduct a search for any trapped children.

Crew manager Riley said that it was soon established that there were no trapped children and the fire was extinguished using a hose reel.

A ventilation unit was also used to clear the building of the remaining smoke which lingered after the blaze was contained During a subsequent investigation into the cause of the fire it was found that numerous fires had been lit on previous occasions throughout the building.

It was also discovered that a propane gas canister from a blow lamp had been put on the fire and this is what caused the explosion that was heard all over Mill Hill, crew manager Riley added.

Cllr Jim Smith, who represents the area, said: “I think that the owners should make sure that this building is secured.

“It is private property and the owners have a duty to make sure that is the case.

“At the moment the building is proving irresistible for the youths in the area.”