Massive gas explosions leaving Portsmouth family 'seconds from death' were result of 'failed' gas pipe

But despite finally finding out what caused the series of blasts, a family whose Whale Island Way house in Stamshaw was destroyed think it will be another year before they are able to return home.

Michael McCormick and his wife, Montse, and son Mark, were evacuated to nearby HMS Excellent along with residents from the street after the eruptions left three houses in ruins with debris catapulted across the area.

Miraculously no one was killed or severely injured despite ferocious bangs that some mistook for an enemy attack on the naval base.

The McCormicks were put into a nearby Travelodge before being moved into rented accommodation in Southsea - paid for by their insurance company - where they remain.