A Shrewsbury businessman has expressed his thanks to the emergency services in the wake of the town blast and the way Shropshire Council managed the aftermath.

Peter Bettis, chairman of Shrewsbury Business Chamber, made his comments as the town started to return to normal with the reopening of the Welsh Bridge last night.

Mr Bettis said: “On behalf of the Shrewsbury Business Chamber, I would like to thank the emergency services for their prompt response.

“The council responded quickly with alternative traffic flow measures giving limited access to town.

“The disruption to the town residents and businesses was inevitable following this incident, however it was necessary to secure and make safe the area to avoid any further injuries to persons and damage to property.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those involved in the accident, their families and friends.”

Meanwhile fundraising is continuing for the five people who were seriously injured in the blast on January 3.

The Bridge Street Fund was set up to help Scott Godbold, Sam Devine-Turner, Sarah Pearse and Annie Davies, as well as Kiley McDonnell, one of the stars of Peter Pan, at Theatre Severn, who suffered spinal injuries.

Roberta Jones, from the fund, said: “The response to the fund has been wonderful.”

Anyone wishing to donate electronically should quote reference 455/2 to account number 50004674, sort code 08 92 50.

Cheques should be made payable to Just Credit Union with the reference number on the back.