Vandals risked causing Market Drayton explosion
Thursday 17th February 2011, 2:26PM GMT.
Vandals could have caused a killer explosion after breaking into a Market Drayton shop and cutting the gas and water pipes, police warned today.
The premises in Shropshire Street were broken into between about 6am and 2pm yesterday.
Nothing was stolen, but vandals caused damage to the pipes before making off, leaving both leaking badly, police said.
A neighbour smelled the gas and raised the alarm.
Police today appealed for anyone who might have seen or heard anybody acting suspiciously in the area at the time to come forward.
They said CCTV footage from the town centre was being checked.
Constable Dave Timmins, who is investigating the incident, said if the leak had not been detected so quickly, the consequences could have been fatal.
“There are houses, flats and other businesses in the street and had the build-up of gas been accidentally ignited, even through the simple act of turning on a light switch, we could have been facing a serious explosion with potentially fatal consequences,” he said.
“Fortunately, someone in a neighbouring property smelled the gas and alerted the gas company, which quickly sent an engineer to repair the damage and stop the leak.
“The break-in happened during daylight or early morning and anyone who might have seen or heard anything suspicious during that time is urged to please contact police on 0300 3333000.
“Entry was gained by smashing in a rear door to the premises which would likely have made quite a bit of noise. If you have information about who was responsible but do not want to be identified, please pass it on via the Crimestoppers line anonymously on 0800 555111.”
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