A bungalow in Finchampstead has been left in ruins following a large explosion.
The property, located in Billing Avenue, Finchampstead is reported to have been victim to a large gas explosion at around 2:50am on Thursday morning.
A man in his fifties has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and remains in police custody.
Police were still on the scene of the explosion on Thursday afternoon.
Wokingham borough council has confirmed to Wokingham Today that the affected properties belong to them.
A spokesperson for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue told Wokingham Today: “At 2:42am on Thursday, June 12, we received reports of a fire on Billing Avenue in Finchampstead.
“Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service crews from Wokingham, Crowthorne and Bracknell fire stations were sent to the scene.
“Upon arrival, crews found an end of terrace bungalow on fire, which also affected the neighbouring property.
“Five firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus used one main jet and three hose reels to put out the fire.
“They were on scene for approximately two hours and six minutes.
“The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service crew from Wokingham later returned to the scene, alongside one officer, one crew from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and one officer from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, to reinspect the scene.”
Dan Brown, a spokesperson for gas company SGN told Wokingham Today: “Our engineers attended an incident in Billing Avenue, Finchampstead, just after 3am on Thursday morning.
“We supported the emergency services in our capacity as the provider of the gas emergency service in the area.
“We’ve isolated the gas supply to the buildings impacted.”
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “We’re appealing for witnesses following an arson in Finchampstead
Investigating officer, detective inspector Stuart Streeter, added: “I am appealing to anybody who witnessed what happened to please contact us.
“I would particularly like to hear from anybody who may have footage on their doorbell cameras, or any other devices, which could help us in our investigation.
“This is an isolated incident and we have made one arrest. We expect police and other public services to be in the area for a time whilst the investigation is underway.
“If you don’t want to speak directly with police, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Pics: Andrew Batt / Wokingham Today.
