THE COMMUNITY is rallying together after a man died after a suspected gas explosion this morning.

Emergency services were called to a house which collapsed in Launcelot Close, King Arthur's Way in the early hours of this morning (December 27) after reports of an explosion at 2.30am.

One house has been destroyed while another has been severely damaged.

King Arthurs Way Community Hall is open today for those who have been affected.

A volunteer at the community hall told the Advertiser "the hall will be open all day" and that groups of people have been in and out. They also reported that they are receiving deliveries of items for people affected.
Tesco and Ocado have donated food and drink supplies, and items such as sleeping bags and blankets have been donated for those who are unable to return to their homes.

READ: Witness describes running into damaged home to find any injured people

Members of the community are rallying together to offer help and support.

Michael Ford turned up at the scene to drop off a box of bacon rolls for the emergency service crews present.

He said: “My family's business, KGF Cars have done it all year where we have supported the community where we can, we’ve donated and fundraised towards the two house fires in the year, we’ve donated money and prizes to charities and more throughout the year to, it’s just what we like to try and do within the community to try and help.

“I just wish I could help more when and if needed.”

Some residents in King Arthurs Way are opening their homes to those affected by the explosion, and offering hot food and drinks for anyone in need.

Kerry Hasler, who was one resident that offered up her home said: “I feel totally saddened for what these families must be going through. It’s heartbreaking and I was more than happy to help even, if I was just offering a sofa, floor, or room. People must come together at such times, and as a town, Andover  really has. And I am sure many people out there are doing what they can.”

The noise of the explosion was heard throughout Andover, with reports of a loud explosion experienced in Charlton, The Drove, Little London, Saxon Fields and Harrow Way.

Joshua Hough of Saxon Court described the noise as: "The worst thing I've ever heard," adding "I was checking my car hadn't been crashed in to and was confused at all the debris scattered around."