The scene in the centre of Shrewsbury after the explosion

The Health and Safety Executive has today defended the lengthy investigation into the devastating Shrewsbury explosion – saying it was vital that the true cause of the blast was found.

It has been more than three months since the blast happened on the corner of Bridge Street and Smithfield Road, leaving 12 people injured – five seriously.

Scott Godbold, one of those seriously hurt, and Paul Turner, father of victim Sam Devine-Turner, yesterday demanded answers over what had led to the blast.

And the HSE has now moved to reassure residents that a thorough investigation is still taking place.

HSE principal inspector Giles Hyder said: “We understand residents’ frustrations that it has been over three months with no further updates, but an investigation into an incident of this nature does take time. This was a serious incident and, as such, our inquiries will inevitably take several months, rather than weeks.

“We can’t be drawn on any possible causes at the present time or comment on rumours that are circulating about the nature of the explosion.

“There are still a number of lines of inquiry to look in to as well as several experts analysing evidence and compiling reports. People were seriously injured in this incident, others lost all their possessions. For their sake it’s important that the true causes of the explosion are determined.”

Mr Godbold said yesterday that all of the victims were in the dark over what had happened.