EMERGENCY services were called to a house in Ayr last night following a huge explosion, and residents were rushed to hospital.

Here is what we know so far

- The explosion occured in Gorse Park, Kincaidston just after 7pm.

- Four people, two children and two adults have been taken to hospital following the explosion which impacted four houses in the area.

- It is understood that the blast was a gas explosion.

- Emergency services were called between 7:10pm and 7:15pm, as Police, Fire, Ambulance and emergency gas services also attended the scene to assist.

- A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “We were alerted at 7.11pm on Monday, October 18 to reports of a dwelling fire in Gorse Park, Ayr.

“Operations control mobilised nine appliances and specialist resources to the scene and firefighters are working to extinguish the fire.

The Herald:
READ MORE: Pictures show devastation at scene at Gorse Park

- Pictures show the devastating debris around the housing estate as local residents poured onto the street to find out what happened.

- Residents have also been pictured this morning playing their part as they helped dispose of the remainging debris.

The Herald:

- Eyewitness reports said the loud explosion was heard up to several miles away. 

- One house apprears to have been completley destroyed.

 

 

- Councillor Chris Cullen this morning told Clyde News: " Where there was a row of houses there are now two missing. We are still waiting on structural engineers to go in and check the stability of the remaining houses, and Scottish Gas are currently working on capping of the gas"

- Residents were last night evacuated from the area and those with property affected by the blast were given shelter in the nearby Queen Margaret Academy.

- The Kincaidston Community Centre and St Columba Church also opened their doors for those who needed help.