Family escape arson gas blast

A woman and two children were rescued from their Bedfordshire home after a gas blast caused by an arson attack.

Police said the family were taken to hospital from the scene in Williams Street, Luton, after the explosion just before 0345 GMT on Friday.

A police spokesman said a wheelie bin was set alight, and the fire caused a gas service pipe to rupture.

He said the property had filled with gas before an explosion shattered a window.

The spokesman said: "There was a gas build-up and an explosion, which blew out a window and caused scorching damage."

Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene and the family were treated at Luton and Dunstable Hospital for minor cuts, bruising and shock.

Officers said the victims have been discharged from hospital and were staying with relatives as gas officials and police investigate.