Gas supplies to hundreds of properties in Whitstable were in the process of being restored this evening following an earlier explosion caused by a ruptured main.

Engineers from SGN worked around the clock to repair the damaged gas main and restore its service to around 600 properties near the Estuary View Business Park off the Old Thanet Way.

A massive explosion erupted on Friday night leaving two workmen injured.

Firefighters were called to the scene at around 10pm and remained at the scene for five hours to ensure the area was safe.

Gas supplies were isolated until repairs were carried out and staff from SGN were visiting affected homes this evening to re-connect households.

Street-by-street safety checks were being carried out before the gas supply was turned back on at the meter with extra engineers drafted in to support the operation.

SGN stressed, however, that customers should not try to use gas until an engineer had visited.

A spokesman said this evening: "It's very important you don't try to use gas until an engineer has visited your property.

"If you're out when the engineers calls they will leave a postcard. Please call the number on the postcard, 0800 912 1717, when you return and we will arrange for an engineer to revisit your property as quickly as we can."

Its customer service team remained on site at Ian's Plaice until 10pm and a 24-hour customer service team is available on 0800 912 1717.

The spokesman added: "We'd like to thank you for your ongoing support while we work to restore supplies to all affected properties."