A house has collapsed following an explosion in East Lancashire prompting the evacuation of several properties.

Lancashire Police say the home collapsed around midday at Sefton Terrace, Burnley.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Please be aware we are currently dealing with a house collapse in Burnley.

"We were called shortly after midday to Sefton Terrace. Emergency services including police, fire and ambulance are currently at the scene and several properties have been evacuated.

"We are now asking people to avoid the area, especially around Piccadilly Road and Sefton Terrace, and for motorists to find alternatives routes where possible."

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We're currently dealing with an explosion in a house on Sefton Terrace, Burnley.

"One person has been rescued by neighbours and taken to hospital. Please avoid the area around Sefton Terrace and Piccadilly Road.

"We have three fire engines and our urban search and rescue team at the scene. We're working with the other emergency services, local authorities and utilities companies to make the scene safe and assess the structure of the property."

Cllr Andy Fewing, of Trinity ward which contains the site of the incident, said: "I'm at one of the points for those who have been evacuated, St Matthew's Church on Albion Street. 

"My immediate reaction is that this a very sad and evolving situation. We don't have much information about what's happened, it's more about making sure people are being directed to St Matthew's if they've been evacuated and keeping everybody safe.  

"My thoughts are with the family affected and we are hoping for the best.

"Sarah Hall and Martyn Hurt, the other two councillors for our ward, are on on their way here too and council teams are at the scene assisting officers and emergency response the best they can."

Lancashire Telegraph:

In an update at around 3pm, Lancashire Police confirmed that affected roads in the area had re-opened.

Residents from surrounding homes had congregated off Piccadilly Square as emergency services dealt with the incident.

Police had cordoned off much of the area quite quickly.

One resident heard of the incident and just wished everyone well.

She said: “It is quite scary. We just hope everyone was alright.”

Another man who lived nearby said: “I didn’t see what happened. I just heard people came out to help the people inside. It makes me proud they did that.

“This is a close-knit community and neighbours are always looking out for one another.”