Blast probe faces challenges

The cause of a suspected gas explosion which killed a toddler will likely not be known for “some considerable time”, a police chief has said.

George Arthur Hinds, aged two years and 10 months, died, while a 44-year-old man and a 50-year-old woman remain in a critical condition in hospital following the incident on Mallowdale Avenue in Heysham, Lancashire, on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to the scene of the blast at about 2.40am and found two houses collapsed, with serious damage to a third property.

Yesterday Chief Inspector Chris Hardy, of Lancashire Constabulary, said: “This appalling incident has resulted in the loss of a young boy’s life and has left two others with very serious injuries. My thoughts today are with George’s family and loved ones at this sad time, as well as those others affected by this incident.

“While we have today started our inquiries, alongside our partners, into what led to yesterday’s (Sunday) explosion I must stress that we are faced with an extremely complex scene which needs painstaking and forensic investigation.

“I appreciate that the community are concerned and want answers but I’m afraid it is likely to take some considerable time before we are in a position to provide them.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have information which could assist our investigation to come forward and contact us. Even if you think the information you have is

insignificant or irrelevant please tell us and we can be the judge.

“I would also ask that people try and avoid speculating about what may have happened and what the cause of this tragic incident may have been.”

George’s parents Vicky Studholme and Stephen Hinds were also injured, but not seriously,

and have since been discharged from hospital.

In a tribute to their son, they said: “We are devastated at the loss of our beautiful George.

“He was so precious to us. We have no words to describe how we feel and just want time to ourselves to come to terms with what has happened.

“Our beautiful little angel grew his wings today.” 23

Sunday’s explosion will require “forensic” investigation.

TRAGEDY: Two-year-old George Hinds died in the blast.