Coseley roof collapse sparks search drama

A roof collapsed on a granny flat adjoining a house in Coseley – sparking a dramatic search operation amid fears that someone could be trapped.

A search dog had to be lowered with a harness into the annexe at the detached property after the 30ft slate roof fell in.

• Click on the image to the right for more photos

Tiles and masonry were sent flying into a neighbouring garden yesterday.

Homeowner Mark Golder dashed home from work after neighbours raised the alarm.

He told of his relief that his wife and two children were not in at the time.

It was originally thought a gas explosion could have caused the collapse at the home in Upper Ettingshall Road but firefighters now suspect it may have been down to subsidence.

Mr Golder is renovating the building, which had belonged to his parents.

A fire crew from Dudley was called at about 12.55pm and drafted in a rescue unit as they feared workers could have been trapped inside.

A labrador was then lowered from 15ft in the air into the building but they quickly found it was empty.

Plasterer Mr Golder, aged 39, said: "There were fire engines and an ambulance here as I arrived, it was crazy. I'm just so thankful that no-one was inside or my neighbours were hurt."