Four people, including a child, have been taken to hospital following a large fire which has destroyed a house.

Emergency crews were called to the Violet Close area of Benwell, Newcastle, at about 00:45 BST.

Eyewitnesses told the BBC they heard a “very loud bang” and saw a “bright flash”, with one describing what she thought was an “explosion”.

Northern Gas Networks said its engineers were at the scene, with people being warned to avoid the area and keep their windows and doors shut.

Emergency services remain on site and road closures are in place on Buddle Road and the surrounding area, Northumbria Police said.

One eyewitness told BBC Radio Newcastle: “There was a big flash, and I was thinking it’s an explosion and then after that I was thinking is it a car or something but after that there was the smell and I woke up my family and we went outside.

“It’s a massive shock, in this area there are many children, many families.”

The North East Ambulance said it had treated four patients – three adults and one child – and taken them to hospital for further treatment.

The Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “We currently have several firefighting appliances in attendance at a large scale incident.”

Newcastle City Council asked people to avoid the area and told those living nearby to stay indoors and keep windows closed “until further notice”.

By Andy Watson, BBC Radio Newcastle

There is a sombre atmosphere at the Buddle Road cordon, families have been waiting there asking for updates since early this morning.

People living nearby said they heard a “very loud bang”.

Some said they thought it had been a car crash, but then their windows flashed orange with flames and they could smell heavy smoke in the area.

Shock seems to be the main emotion at the moment as people wait to find out more.

Follow BBC Newcastle on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk