Man is charged after explosion (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Man is charged after explosion

9:17am Monday 21st January 2008 in Swindon By Emily Walker

A MAN has been charged in connection with a mystery explosion in Toothill.

The blast forced four Toothill families out of their homes just days before Christmas.

Now police have revealed they have charged a 44-year-old man - believed to be the occupant - in connection with the explosion in Stamford Close on December 23.

Det Con Clare Wyness, of Swindon CID, said: "Further to initial reports of a fire, and a subsequent explosion, one male has been charged with offences relating to this matter.

"It has come to light that persons may have been seen in and around the area of the block of flats when the fire and explosion occurred who have not yet been identified."

One man had to be taken to Swindon's Great Western Hospital with burns following the explosion.

He was later transferred to the specialist burns unit at Frenchay Hospital in Bristol. The explosion completely destroyed the flat, leaving a bare, burned-out shell in its place.

The residents of 11 other properties had to be evacuated from their homes immediately after the blast.

Neighbour Scott Somerville, who was hailed a hero for raising the alarm to residents, guided a number of people away from the blaze to safety.

Scott, a doorman and store detective, said that he came home from work at about 6am and had dozed off when he first heard a noise at about 7am.

"I ran down the stairs to have a look and the whole building was non-existent," he said.

"I went back inside and called the fire brigade and woke my fiancee, Lisa.

"Everyone in the block heard me shouting.

"It was just natural instinct. I just wanted everyone out safely."

Police said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the explosion but believe there may have been witnesses who have not yet been spoken to.

Det Con Wyness has asked anyone who was in the area after the explosion, but before the fire, to contact her at Swindon CID on 0845 408 7000.