Firefighters are tackling a “major gas explosion” in Bedford which is sending plumes of smoke over the town.

Emergency services are warning people to stay indoors and keep their windows and doors closed.

Pictures from the scene showed a block of apartments on fire.

A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are currently in attendance at a major gas explosion on Redwood Grove, Bedford.

“There are currently six appliances, two water carriers, an incident command unit at the scene. Please avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.”

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Adam Fisher told the PA news agency: “A huge explosion [was] heard – everyone went to our work car park to see what was happening.

“Our building is adjacent to the apartment complex – immediately an inferno (was) visible, huge smoke cloud billowing, people screaming and people frantically calling for emergency services.”

Bedfordshire Police said in a tweet: “We are aware of an incident this morning in Redwood Grove, Bedford. All emergency services are aware and are in attendance.

“We will issue further information as we have it but would ask people to avoid the area for the moment.”

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