Explosion risk houses evacuated

About 60 people were evacuated from their homes when a fire at a Tyneside industrial estate sparked fears of gas cylinders exploding.

Fire crews found the cylinders after bringing the blaze, at Penshaw Way in Birtley, Gateshead, under control in the early hours of Saturday.

A cordon was put in place until about 0700 BST, after which most of the residents were allowed home.

The cause of the fire, at Rollalong Hire Ltd, is being investigated.

A number of roads in the area remain closed, and people working at the estate on Saturday are advised to contact police.