An appeal has been launched to help residents in Swansea who are still unable to return home after a suspected gas explosion.

Two houses in the Morriston area of the south Wales city were destroyed in Monday’s blast, which left one man dead.

Three people were also taken to hospital.

South Wales Police confirmed on Tuesday afternoon the identity of the man who died as 68-year-old Brian Davies.

Swansea Council said a number of people are still unable to return to their homes after extensive damage was caused to properties and belongings.

Swansea Council for Voluntary Service (SCVS), a charity for the voluntary and community sector in the area, is asking people to donate money to help residents impacted by the explosion.

Other organisations in the community are already providing aid directly to those affected, and the local council hopes that those groups will be able to refer people to access extra help through the fund.

SCVS Director Amanda Carr said “our hearts go out” to all affected and added “we are so proud” of the organisations, emergency responders and community members “who have stepped forward”.

“We’re launching this appeal to complement the amazing efforts already in place locally, and will be contacting organisations on the ground to explain how they can refer people for financial support in the next couple of days,” Ms Carr added.

“Every penny of the money donated to this appeal will be distributed to those in need.”

‘Incredible’ response

Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart added: “The response of the community has been incredible and people are rallying around to do whatever they can to support those affected by this devastating event.

“The council, alongside our partners, are doing everything we can to support residents and all those affected by providing accommodation to those who’ve needed it free of charge.

“We are with the people of Morriston and will continue to be with them in the coming months with further support and advice that they may need.

“People have been asking what they can do to help and that is why I’d encourage anyone who is able to do so, to donate to this appeal to support those that have been directly affected by this tragedy.”

Young firefighter was ‘proud’ to help

South Wales Police were initially called to reports of an explosion at a property on Clydach Road at 11.20am on Monday, and a significant emergency service operation followed.

Stacey and Philip Whelan’s 18-year-old son, who has recently joined the fire service, was part of the rescue operation in the aftermath.

Mrs Whelan’s father lives on Clydach Road but was not home when the explosion happened.

“It’s not something you see every day and especially when you know there could be someone that they’re trying to find,” Mrs Whelan told Sky News.

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“He’s only just recently joined the brigade. I think all these different scenarios are an experience for him,” added Mr Whelan.

“You don’t want to see these incidents unfold but unfortunately that’s the job he’s doing.”

“He loves to help people – he said he feels proud just being able to help people,” Mrs Whelan continued.

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