RESIDENTS were evacuated from their homes today after an explosion in Port Sunlight.

Emergency services were called at around 12.17pm to Shore Drive following reports of a blast which had gone through a wall of a house.

The homeowner, a pensioner, was in the kitchen at the time. She was checked by paramedics and not believed to have suffered any injuries.

Firefighters attended and discovered the blast's cause - an oxyacetylene gas cylinder had exploded at a nearby building site.

They checked temperatures of remaining gas cylinders at the location while keeping them cool with a main jet hose.

A 300-metre cordon was put in place on Shore Drive and Bolton Road East by police.

There was a strong smell of gas and homeowners were evacuated from their homes as a precaution.

Nearby resident Danielle Heatley was at work when her mother rang to say what happened.

Danielle told the Globe: "Mum was at home at the time and the whole house shook, just like the explosion in New Ferry last year.

"She went outside and saw all the neighbours in the street. It was scary.

"I hope the person whose house was involved in the explosion is alright."

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: "We were in attendance in Port Sunlight to assist with road closures following a report a gas cylinder damaged a wall today.

"Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance to ensure any remaining cylinders at the site are safe, and a cordon was put in place as a precaution.

"Shore Drive and Bolton Road East were closed in both directions, and some properties evacuated as a precaution.

"Enquiries into the incident are ongoing."