Pictured: ‘Kind and loving’ pensioner, 85, killed in home explosion that left member of the family combating for her life in hospital
This is the ‘kind and loving’ 85-year-old man who died in an explosion and fire in Bedford that left another family member fighting for her life in hospital.
Paul Swales was killed in the explosion at his house in Cleat Hill on October 19.
A woman in her 80s, a family member, remains in hospital with serious injuries after being pulled from the blaze.
Paying tribute to Mr Swales, his family said: ‘Paul was a kind and loving man who we dearly miss.
‘We thank the emergency services for their professionalism and the kind and heartfelt messages that have been received by everyone.
Paul Swales (pictured) was killed in the explosion at his house in Cleat Hill on October 19
Pictures show the catastrophic damage caused by an explosion at a house in Bedford that killed Mr Swales and left another with serious injuries
The remains of the house in Cleat Hill, Bedford, where Mr Swales was killed and another family member was left fighting for her life in hospital
‘A special thanks goes to the gentleman that bravely pulled our family member from the fire.
‘Our thoughts are also with the people that have been impacted since and we hope the distress will soon end.’
Increased levels of natural gas were identified in the ground after the explosion and the immediate area around Cleat Hill was evacuated, Bedfordshire Police previously said.
The force said they were thought to be naturally occurring gasses from an underground source, and not from the gas pipe network.
A neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said that natural gas had been discovered ‘coming out from the ground’ in June during some building work nearby.
Describing the explosion, she said: ‘I just heard the bang, I heard a mighty bang that was really massive.
‘I can’t describe it. I’ve never heard anything like it.’
Firefighters pictured tackling the blaze while locals stand to watch the huge inferno
A video of the incident was shared online, showing the extensive damage to the house
The collapsed roof and shattered timber frame of the house in Cleat Hill can be seen in shocking aerial photos, with bricks and rubble scattered all over the ground below
She said the ‘whole roof’ of the affected house ‘came off’ in the explosion.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Inwood from Bedfordshire Police said: ‘Our thoughts remain with Mr Swales’ loved ones at this difficult and distressing time, as well as the woman in hospital, who we wish a full recovery.
‘Specialist officers are working with Mr Swales’ family and will support them however we can.’
