‘It was scary’: People tell of their fear after Crawley gas leak

People evacuated from their Crawley homes after a major gas leak have told of their fear when they were told to get out.
By Sarah Page
Published 6th Jan 2021, 12:51 GMT
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Hundreds of people were ordered out of their homes when the leak was discovered soon after midnight last night at a block of flats in Milton Mound Avenue, Pound Hill.

Many describe the moment they were told to leave as ‘scary’ and ‘horrendous.’ Families are now being housed in nearby hotels and have been told that they will not be allowed back for two days.

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Members of the public have been rallying to help deliver essential supplies to them.

Emergency services have declared a major incident in Crawley after 700 people were evacuated from a block of flats. Picture: Eddie Mitchell SUS-210601-083007001Emergency services have declared a major incident in Crawley after 700 people were evacuated from a block of flats. Picture: Eddie Mitchell SUS-210601-083007001
Emergency services have declared a major incident in Crawley after 700 people were evacuated from a block of flats. Picture: Eddie Mitchell SUS-210601-083007001

Meanwhile, there is confusion as to the whereabouts of some residents. Some say they are unable to find friends and family and Crawley Borough Council has put out an appeal for information.

Some residents have posted messages on social media telling of their fear when emergency workers banged on their door, told them to gather some belongings and get out as quickly as possible.

Police and ambulance services say no-one was hurt in the incident.