Homeowners return after Belfast blaze
More than 100 homeowners forced to flee after a major fire broke out at a derelict garage were tonight allowed to return to their homes in Northern Ireland.
Residents on Avoniel Road, East Belfast were evacuated and roads closed last night after gas cylinders exploded, threatening surrounding properties.
Divisional Commander John Langtry said firefighters will continue to cool an unknown number of cylinders, which have been trapped under rubble, until 8pm tonight – 24 hours after the alarm was raised.
The area around the garage remains cordoned off.
On the challenge his officers were faced with, Mr Langtry said: “The initial few hours were difficult.
"When you have hazardous material like that it is very dangerous for firefighters and preventing it from spreading to other houses was a big concern.
“There was the potential for a massive fire but the crews did a great job of containing it.”
An emergency centre was set up for those affected at the Avoniel Leisure Centre but it is understood the majority were able to spend the night with family and friends.
