Emergency services have been called to the scene of an explosion which has destroyed a house in Haxby near York.

The detached building was reduced to rubble and nearby properties were badly damaged.

Images posted on Twitter showed debris scattered around the residential street.

Police were unable to give any details about casualties.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: 'We are at the scene of a major incident in Haxby. We are working alongside colleagues from the fire service and ambulance service.

'There is no risk to the wider public, but some disruption will be caused.'

An area around the scene of the blast was cordoned off and a relief centre has been set up in Haxby Memorial Hall for people forced to leave their homes.