Three treated at scene after gas main ruptures

A gas main rupture during upgrade work led to three people receiving medical treatment at the scene and residents being forced to leave their homes.

Firefighters were called to Marchwood near Southampton on Tuesday at about 12:30 GMT where work to replace a gas main was being carried out by SGN on Main Road and Hythe Road.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said crews set up a safety cordon, evacuated nearby properties and treated three casualties. SGN said one engineer was taken to hospital as a precaution.

The gas firm said: "Engineers are on the scene and have put a cordon in place for everyone's safety."

It added that the road remained closed and residents from two properties were being supported.

"We understand there is a strong smell of gas in the surrounding area. Please be assured that gas supplies to residents and businesses are currently unaffected," SGN said.

"We're very sorry for the inconvenience and are working to complete these essential repairs as quickly as possible."

The work, expected to last 10 weeks, is to replace a section of gas main on Main Road and started on 7 September.