300 people were evacuated from their homes during the middle of the night in Croydon after a gas main was ruptured during a car crash.

Two fire engines and three fire rescue units rushed to Mitcham Road in the early hours of Sunday morning (September 29).

A car had crashed into roadworks, rupturing a six-inch gas main.

London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police were sent to the scene to assist with the evacuation.

A 100-metre cordon was set up, and London Fire Brigade claims that residents were taken to a nearby rest centre for safety.

The Brigade was called at 1.17am, and the incident was brought to an end by 5.04am.

Local resident Carolyn Lipczynski claims that they were directed to a cemetery and allegedly spent six hours in the freezing cold, unable to return home.

The police reportedly mentioned that Croydon Council was working to provide buses or a community centre for warmth, but she says nothing materialised.

She explained that blankets were eventually brought by the police from a nearby hospital.

Carolyn, who had her six-year-old child and dog with her, expressed anger towards the council for their lack of support, especially as they couldn't afford a hotel.

Croydon Council has been approached for further information.

A total of 22 firefighters from Croydon, Lewisham, and Euston stations attended the scene. Motorists were advised to avoid the area while the road closures were in place.

The road remained closed until Sunday lunchtime, causing disruption in the area.

No injuries were reported.

Station Commander Tamer Ozdemir who was at the scene, said: “Crews worked closely with emergency service partners to carry out evacuations of the local area.

“Multi-agency service partners remained on scene throughout the night and into Sunday morning to ensure the scene was safe and provide community support.

“Motorists were advised to avoid the area while the road closures were in place.”

The Metropolitan Police and SGN has been contacted for further information.