Four people have died after an explosion ripped through a shop and flat in Hinckley Road, Leicester, last night.

The Mercury is at the scene and covering the story live. For live updates click here.

The blast tore apart Western Park stores, close to the junction with Westcotes Drive, at about 7pm.

A massive blaze broke out at the site within a couple of minutes of the explosion, which rocked houses in nearby streets.

Emergency services have been at the scene through the night.

Leicestershire Police said this morning: "Four people are confirmed to have died in an explosion at a property in Leicester last night."

The force added that four more people remain in hospital, one of whom has serious injuries.

Hinckley Road, from its junction with Bolton Road to its junction with Woodville Road, is closed in both directions. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

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