Explosion in Scarborough Injures Two and Prompts Evacuations
An investigation is underway following an explosion at a house on Cambridge Street in Scarborough, which resulted in injuries to two individuals and the evacuation of numerous nearby homes and businesses.
Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene at 05:46 BST, according to the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
A spokesperson from the fire service reported that approximately 50 to 70 surrounding homes and businesses were evacuated as a precautionary measure. A safety cordon remains established around the area.
The Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) confirmed that two people were transported to hospital, though their conditions have not been disclosed.
Specialist support units, including a specialist incident support unit, were deployed alongside crews from Scarborough, Sherburn, and Robin Hood's Bay to manage the incident.
Fire Service Statement and Ongoing Investigation
In an update issued shortly after 12:30 BST, a spokesperson for North Yorkshire Fire Service stated:
"Fire crews will be leaving the scene shortly and handing the incident over to other agencies.
"The cordon and road closures remain in place at this time. An investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing."
Firefighters have been working in coordination with the ambulance service, police, and the gas board throughout the response.
A YAS spokesperson detailed the emergency response:
"A number of ambulance resources, including three ambulances and the Hazardous Area Response Team, were dispatched to the scene as part of a multi-agency response.
"Two patients were conveyed to hospital."
Local Business Impacted by Explosion
Dave Bigsby, owner of Lillys Reptile Rescue located on Victoria Road within the cordoned area, described the aftermath:
"It's an absolute mess. The explosion has devastated the building and the one next door.
"Most businesses in the area are shut due to the cordon, and I expect to be fully closed all day."
He added that North Yorkshire Police allowed him access to his premises to check on his animals.
Eyewitness Account
Lou Lambert, 49, shared her experience on the morning of the incident:
"I was just walking my son to the bus stop at about half past seven and saw people out on the street.
"One old lady had been standing for more than an hour, so we took her to a police car to get warm."
MP's Response and Community Support
Alison Hume, Labour MP for Scarborough and Whitby, expressed gratitude to emergency responders and key workers involved in managing the incident.
In a social media statement, she wrote:
"I also want to thank staff at The Street for offering refreshments and shelter to evacuated residents."
She further urged the public to avoid the area to facilitate emergency operations.
"Stay away from the area so those on scene can do their jobs."
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