HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE were evacuated from their homes yesterday evening in London after a huge gas leak.

This happened in the south-east of the city in the Penge area, with firefighters, police and ambulances being sent to the scene shortly before 11pm yesterday evening.

Shortly after the incident began four reception centres were set up to help residents who were put out of their homes.

On Twitter, Sergeant Lance Chenery, part of the policing team for the Bromley area, said the incident was a “serious gas leak” affecting a large area.

Repair works took place overnight and residents were on their way back to their homes before the sun came up this morning.

The evacuation began after a member of the public smelt gas and called the national gas emergency number, the BBC is reporting. 

In total around 150 people were affected, although this number was initially thought to be higher.

Road closures had been put in place at the scene to allow for repair work to take place.

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