Health and safety experts have decided not to prosecute Wales and West Utilities over the massive gas explosion that destroyed pesnioner Jimmy Brown's house in Malmesbury.

A Health and Safety Executive spokesman said this morning: "The Health & Safety Executive has now concluded its deliberations into the gas explosion which took place at The Horsefair in Malmesbury on 23rd April and has decided that there will be no prosecution against Wales and West Utilities.

"The HSE has acknowledged that WWU has a good safety record and a history of actively seeking to improve its performance.'' Malmesbury town centre was rocked by the enormous blast.

Mr Brown, 77, had returned to his Horsefair home with his dog Bessie and had lit a gas ring to put his kettle on.

The pensioner has no sense of smell, so was unaware of any gas leak. Terrified neighbours came pouring from their houses after hearing the enormous blast.

But, with rubble and debris lying around him and nothing of his house left, Mr Brown was able to walk away.

Two other neighbouring homes also had to be demolished.

The HSE spokesman said the Wales and West Utilities has been open and co-operative throughout the investigation and that it acted quickly to identify potential areas for further improvements.

He added: "During the course of the investigation, WWU found that the recording of service pipe pressure tests was inconsistent.

"The company accepts that the requirement to receive records of pressure tests is our responsibility and we have therefore agreed actions with the HSE to address this which are being implemented with immediate effect.

"From the outset, WWU has promised to keep local residents informed of progress and we will be sending a letter to residents and to the local council informing them of the HSE's conclusions.

"Safety continues to be the number one priority for this business and continual improvement, both in the field and in our business support services, remains a key focus for us.''

More reaction later