RESIDENTS were evacuated from their homes yesterday after workmen drilled through a gas main in Maida Vale

RESIDENTS were evacuated from their homes yesterday after workmen drilled through a gas main in Maida Vale.

Westminster firefighters were called to Chippenham Road at 9.20am and set up a 75metre exclusion zone after fears of a major explosion.

Emergency work was carried out to repair the hole which was caused by contractors for Thames Water and the roads and surrounding area were re-opened by 11.30am.