RESIDENTS’ BOMB FEARS

Anne and John Burns were evacuated from their home and went to the Leisureplex where they remained until 3am. Anne said: “At first when I saw all the commotion I thought it was a bomb but then we were told about the gas and that we would have to evacuate our homes through the back way.

“There were only six of us altogether who went to the Leisureplex - everyone else had family or friends to stay with.

“The gas people kept in touch throughout the evening and we were delighted when we could go home. We are just glad it’s all over.”

Gladys McMichael and her husband Brian were also evacuated from their home. Gladys, who is disabled, said: “We were asked to keep our windows closed and report any smell of gas and then the police said that we might be evacuated.

“A while later we were told that we would have to leave our homes and that we could go to the Leisureplex. We were fortunate that our daughter lives nearby and we could go there for the night.”

Tuesday’s leak was reported about 6.30pm with a cordon erected between Grosvenor Bridge and Manor Park.

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