Following the boy’s tragic death, the community affected by the explosion rallies in support

Residents of Violet Close in Benwell, Newcastle, were forced to evacuate after a massive explosion and fire just before 1am.

The community where a devastating explosion killed a young boy and left others homeless has come together to offer support, a local priest said.

Residents of Violet Close in Benwell, Newcastle, were forced to evacuate after a massive explosion and fire just before 1am, prompting a major response from emergency services.

About 12 hours later, police confirmed that a seven-year-old boy had died at the scene of the accident and six other people had to be treated in hospital.

Father Chris Minchin from Benwell and Scotswood Team Parish helped at a local community centre.

He said: “It opened up straight away, giving people a warm space for the families who were evacuated and are in shock at what happened.”

“There were a lot of donations for people, including baby things, as there are a lot of (young) families.

“The council has been busy providing hotel rooms for people.

“Everyone is really tired, they were up all night and it was hard. People are shocked, but there has also been a wonderful reaction.

“It shows how important it is to have community spaces right where people live.

“People are just starting to talk – no one can prepare mentally or spiritually for something like this.

“It’s only hitting people now. There used to be a lot going on, now they’re all on their way to hotels or to visit friends and family.

“People left with nothing, just their pajamas, and grabbed their pets and their kids and that was it.

“They will need support and some love and care in the coming days.”

The vicar said St James’ Church on Benwell Lane would be open for prayers and candles would be lit for the little boy who died.