UPDATE: Residents can return home after Higham Ferrers gas leak

At least 25 houses were evacuated in Higham Ferrers after a gas leak this afternoon (Monday).

Fire crews from Irthlingborough and Rushden were called to North End after the leak from the pavement just before 1.30pm, with police and gas workers from Cadent also in attendance.

A cordon was in place in the area and the road was closed from the Kimbolton Road roundabout to School Lane, with the road closure remaining in place this afternoon.

People were urged to shut their doors and windows and avoid the area as homes were evacuated as a precaution.

Just after 4.30pm a police spokesman said people who were evacuated could return home.