Fire causes Jersey sheltered housing evacuation

An explosion and fire forced the evacuation of sheltered housing in Jersey.

The incident happened in sheltered housing in St Ouen's Village shortly before 02:00 GMT.

Police believe the blaze, which was quickly contained by firefighters, started when a diesel generator exploded.

The parish hall took in eight elderly residents whose homes were evacuated.

Two residents were taken to hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation.

Jersey Fire and Rescue Service said a total of 14 firefighters dealt with the blaze.

The explosion blew the doors off a building that housed a heating system and damaged the roof of another property.

Parish authorities said six residents had been allowed to return to their homes.

They also said people who did not have any heating were being offered fan heaters.

Emergency services said they were investigating the cause of the fire.

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