AN update has been issued following a gas leak that saw Widnes residents evacuated from their homes on New Year’s Eve.

Just before 7pm on Sunday, emergency services were called to the scene of a crash on Queensbury Way.

A vehicle had crashed into one of Cadent Gas’ governor stations – a small kiosk that manages gas pressure in the local area, namely Ditton and Upton Rocks.

This resulted in a gas leak which led to a Cadent Gas governor immediately making the scene safe by cutting off a gas supply, affecting Cadent customers as well as those of independent gas transporter (IGT) GTC.

It is believed around 550 homes were affected on the evening.

A spokesperson for Cadent Gas said: “Engineers have made the area safe, but there now follows the process of recommissioning and repressurising the local network which will take some time.

“Our customer service team are in the process of contacting the most vulnerable customers to ensure that they are safe, and we will do all we can to support them until the gas supply is back on.

“We would like to remind everyone that if they ever suspect a gas leak then they should call the gas emergency service number on 0800 111 999 as it may not be related to this incident. The number operates 24/7 and is free to call."

One fire engine from Widnes and one from Penketh attended the scene.