PEOPLE returned to their homes today after being evacuated for nearly 36 hours following a fatal gas explosion.

A man died when a garage exploded into a ball of flames at about 9pm on Sunday night in Arbuthnot Lane in Bexleyheath.

Police quickly put emergency procedures into action to move the residents away from potentially dangerous gas canisters.

Police Supt John Powell said that although the evacuation caused major disruption it was necessary for public safety.

He addded: "There were 15 people who refused to leave and stayed in their houses. The council's emergency planning officer has been fantastic in relocating the families at no notice at all."