A MOTHER has described opening her front door to a strong smell of gas after a car crashed and damaged a main gas pipe in Bewdley this morning.

Residents are returning to their homes after being evacuated by firefighters in the early hours of this morning (Friday).

The crash happened in Kidderminster Road at around 1.15am this morning (Friday), causing damage to railings, the front of a property, and a gas pipe.

Firefighters from Bewdley and Kidderminster attended, alongside specialists from Cadent Gas Ltd and officers from West Mercia Police.

Mum-of-two Carly Ellis, 36, told The Shuttle: "The first time I woke up was to loud bangs at the door from a fireman around 2am. I didn't hear the crash.

"I opened the door and the gas just hit me in the face so I knew instantly we had to leave.

"I went upstairs and got my two children out of bed. It was a little bit scary - I just knew I had to get us all out of there as quickly as possible."

30 evacuees, including two children and three dogs, were put up at Bewdley Fire Station where they were looked after by the Red Cross until space was made available at Wyre Forest district Council's rest centre at around 4am.

Carly added: "The firefighters gave us all hot chocolate and we were given breakfast at the council building this morning.

"I can't thank the fire service, Red Cross and staff at Wyre Forest District Council enough."

The driver of the vehicle involved in the crash has been arrested for driving offences and remains in police custody where he is assisting officers with their enquiries.

Engineers are still carrying out repairs in Kidderminster Road and police are advising people to avoid the area.