PICTURED: Gas explosion destroys Wolverhampton windmill
A gas explosion has destroyed a 'landmark' old windmill in Wolverhampton.
The windmill, based on Windmill Lane in Castlecroft, was blown apart by the explosion around 7.30pm last night.
A man who lived in the property was inside when the blast happened but he is understood to be uninjured.
Neighbours rushed outside to his aid after hearing 'a loud boom' and discovered the top of the windmill had completely caved in.
Some living nearby said it sounded like a car crash, it was so loud.
It is believed the explosion may be related to the windmill's boiler, according to West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS).
The service sent two crews from Tettenhall and Wolverhampton to the scene last night around 7.40pm, as well as a technical rescue crew from Wednesbury.
Teams from Cadent Gas were on site this morning, after neighbours reported a strong gas smell.
There was no fire but crews made the building safe before leaving around 12.30am.
A spokeswoman for WMFS confirmed crews would be returning to the site this morning to check on the condition of the building.
West Midlands Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were also in attendance last night.
Police closed Windmill lane last night while fire crews made the building safe.
Locals were quick to react to the news of the explosion.
Leader of the opposition at Wolverhampton Council Wendy Thompson said: "This is terrible. A wonderful historic landmark. Do hope everyone is safe."
Councillor Jane Stevenson for Tettenhall added: "I am so sorry to see this. A beautiful landmark in this part of Wolverhampton. Hoping nobody was hurt."
Local resident Ness Tobin said: "That's awful. It's been an iconic building all my life, and before."
And Daniella Brooks called it 'absolutely devastating' news.
A JustGiving page has been set up to support the man who lived in the windmill. To donate click here.
