Man who died in house explosion named

A man who died in a house explosion that saw dozens of people evacuated from their homes has been named as David Howard.

Emergency services were called to John Street, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, on Saturday shortly before 20:00 BST.

Nottinghamshire Police said officers recovered the 53-year-old's body from under debris following the blast.

His daughters have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, the force added.

A major incident was declared by emergency services following the explosion on Saturday evening.

One terraced house was destroyed and two more partially collapsed.

Eight further properties and 20 cars were damaged by debris, police said, with one other person treated for minor injuries.

Det Ch Insp Ruby Burrow, from Nottinghamshire Police, said: "Our thoughts are very much with David's loved ones at this devastating time.

"He has lost his life in truly tragic circumstances, and we would ask everyone to respect his daughters' privacy.

"Our investigation to establish exactly what happened is ongoing and we are working hard to find the answers his family needs.

"We would ask that while the investigation is being carried out that people avoid speculation both online and in the community."

A spokesperson for Bassetlaw District Council said 35 houses were evacuated on the night but residents had since been able to return to all but 16.

Temporary accommodation is being provided to those still unable to return. The council said a number of families would not be allowed back for a "considerable period of time".

On Monday, a BBC reporter at the scene said the road outside the affected houses had been cleared.

Vehicles from a demolition company and Bassetlaw District Council housing repair were at the blast site.

Police said the two houses either side of the affected house would most likely have to be demolished.

Debbie Adams, who lives just a few houses away, said the explosion shook her house and filled her dining room with dust.

She was told to leave by the emergency services and said she did not know when she might get back in.

Piotr Peruki, whose house backs onto the scene, was offered a place in the community centre but spent Saturday night in his car.

His 14-year-old son, who went to stay with friends in Sheffield, is still affected by the shock.

"For him it was a very bad experience, he is scared.

"He says he does not want to stay here, he wants to move house, he does not feel safe because maybe the accident will happen again.

"It had a very big impact on him."

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