WIRRAL Council has begun the process of helping residents and businesses recover from Saturday night’s explosion in New Ferry.

The council has made an urgent appeal for those who left the scene without making contact to let them know where they are, so that they can discuss their property and what support they need.

David Ball, Wirral’s assistant director of environmental services, who is leading the council’s recovery team, said: "Due to the nature of the emergency many people left the scene quickly and we need to know who they are and where they are now.

"We would urge them to contact us as soon as they can so we can help them."

The explosion caused widespread damage and building collapse, with 18 casualties taken to hospital and a further 15 turning up for treatment at local hospitals.

The blast site and immediate area remains a crime scene as Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, Wirral Council, Health and Safety Inspectorate, and National Grid jointly investigate the cause of the explosion.

The council is now working with residents whose homes have been affected, and businesses unable to re-open due to structural damage.

Around ten people have been placed in emergency accommodation by the council.

If you are an affected resident and have not yet been in touch with the council call 0151 666 5511 from 9am to 5pm or 0151 677 6557 out of hours.