Excavator combs through debris at scene of Benwell homes blast

An excavator can today be seen combing through debris at the scene of the Benwell explosion as a probe continues to establish the cause of the tragedy.

Tomorrow marks three weeks since the huge blast ripped through homes in Violent Close, claiming the lives of seven-year-old Archie York, and Jason Laws, who was 35.

Today, a large area around Violet Close remains cordoned off by police, with huge white sheets hiding the scene from view. Forensics officers have been seen working at the site since soon after the incident, which happened during the early hours of October 16. And now an excavator is being used to comb through the rubble, which was once family homes.

Northumbria Police says it is continuing to carry out investigations into the explosion, along with other agencies.

And a senior officer has previously said it could take some time to establish what caused the tragedy.

Supt Darren Adams said: "The investigation into this tragedy is ongoing and due to the level of damage which has been caused this is likely to take some time. We are committed to providing answers to what has happened. We would ask that while the investigation is being carried out that people avoid speculation both online and in the community. We again thank people for their continued support and cooperation at this time.”

A spokesman for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said it was continuing to "assist" police with enquires into the explosion.

Six people were taken to hospital as a result of the incident. Five were discharged soon after but one man, in his 30s, remains in hospital. His condition is described as "stable".