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Gas cylinder explosions today devastated an historic chocolate factory.

Police warned residents to shut windows and doors over fears asbestos had escaped as thick black smoke filled the sky.

The blasts happened on the site of the Thorntons chocolate factory in Belper, Derbyshire, shortly at around 3.30pm.

Police used a helicopter to issue warnings to local residents to close windows and doors over fears asbestos had escaped from the building.

Workers were redeveloping the site to create a Tesco supermarket when the explosions happened.

Miraculously nobody was hurt in the blasts. Fire investigators are now trying to discover if arson was to blame.

Gavin Tomlinson, area manager for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “No-one was injured but the building is 100% damaged.”

Local shop owner Stefan Rick said: “There was a popping and crackling sound coming from the building on fire, which sounded like fireworks.”

A nearby cricket match between Derbyshire and Lancashire had to be abandoned after smoke drifted onto the pitch.

Derbyshire chairman Chris Grant said: “I was watching the game when I spotted the fire and it became clear the building had exploded.

“I ensured all of the players and the umpires got off the pitch straight away and got back inside.

“This must be one of the first games of cricket that has been abandoned because of fire."