Major gas leak sparks 300ft safety cordon in town

A 300ft (100m) cordon has been put in place in a rural town after a "major" gas leak.

Cornwall Council said Wales and West engineers were working to isolate the leak on Pengover Road in Liskeard.

It said the cordon had been put in place "as a precaution" on Thursday evening and the council advised people to "avoid the area if possible".

Devon and Cornwall Police said the gas leak was south of the A390 and Addington was "major" and Pengover Road had been closed in both directions.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police urged residents in the area to be mindful of the risk of fire.

They said: "For your safety, please do not light any barbecues, fire pits, bonfires, disposable BBQs, or any other naked flames within the affected area until further notice.

"Please also refrain from smoking outdoors or using any equipment that may create sparks near the incident.

"A gas leak presents a significant risk of fire and explosion.

"We ask all residents and visitors to follow this advice, avoid the affected area where possible, and comply with any instructions given by emergency service personnel."

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service also asked people to avoid the area while its crews, police officers and gas engineers worked to deal with the incident.

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