91Èȱ¬

A man injured in a house explosion is still in a critical condition in hospital, police said.

Durham Police said the man, who is in his 40s, sustained serious injuries in the blast at the property in Coronation Terrace, Willington, at 01:30 BST on Monday.

A force spokesman said a cordon around the property had been lifted, but gas engineers would remain on the street while the council and landlord worked to make the home safe.

Det Ch Insp Mel Sutherland said police were investigating the cause of the blast and asked anyone with information to contact them.

Residents were evacuated following the explosion, with most returning to their homes on Monday evening.

A German Shephard dog died in the explosion.

DCI Sutherland thanked residents who helped the injured man.

"This was an extremely frightening experience for all those involved and has caused a great deal of concern within the local community," he said.

"Several residents displayed extraordinary bravery coming to the injured man’s aid following the explosion and I’d like to sincerely thank them for their selflessness in helping someone during their time of need."

He added if any residents needed extra support they should contact police.

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