The Port Erin family whose home was destroyed by a massive explosion
on Tuesday say they are so grateful for the support of their neighbours.

27 year-old Ben Horan rescued his dad Jim, younger brother Jamie and a friend after the explosion at their Maine Road home which blew off their roof, shattered walls and windows, blasted a huge hole in a neighbour's house and smashed windows in nearby properties.

Fire chiefs have confirmed it’s likely the house will have to be demolished
and that the scale of the structural damage prevents personnel entering to carry out any form of formal investigation.

Manx Gas is in the process of carrying out its own investigation.

Ben says the family appreciate all those who rallied round:

(Pictured, Jamie and Ben Horan)