Batley explosion: Several people injured after gas explosion in West Yorkshire

'A number of people' receive burns and are treated in hospital

At least four people have been taken to hospital after a gas explosion and fire in West Yorkshire.

Police said the explosion occurred in a domestic flat in the Hick Lane area of Batley, in Kirklees.

The force said "a number of people" received burns and are being treated in hospital but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Chief Inspector Wayne Horner said: "I understand that this will have caused concern amongst the community; residents can be reassured that police along with our partners from the other emergency services are on scene dealing with the incident."

Yorkshire Ambulance Service said it was treating four patients.

Police were alerted just before 6.50pm on Wednesday to reports of a "loud noise" and remain on scene along with the fire and ambulance services.

A spokesman for the force said a police cordon was in place and that people from the immediate area had been evacuated as a precaution.

Tracy Brabin, Labour and Co-operative MP for Batley & Spen, said on Twitter: "My thoughts are with those who have been injured in the incident.

"I will share any further updates from our emergency services as I receive them."

PA