House blast mum and son ‘critical’ in hospital

‘Finding answers will take time’

TWO people are now in a critical condition following an explosion at a family home earlier this week.

The blast happened in Kincaidston, Ayr, at the home of William and Marion Ferguson, who were taken to hospital with their sons, aged 11 and 16.

Despite their house being destroyed by Monday’s huge explosion which left their personal effects strewn across the housing estate, all four were taken out alive.

Police have now confirmed that Mrs Ferguson, 43, and her oldest son are in a critical condition. Mr Ferguson, 47, and their younger son are both stable.

Chief Inspector Derrick Johnston, area commander for South Ayrshire, said: ‘Our thoughts are very much with those injured in the explosion, their families and people in the community who have been displaced from their homes. I would like to thank everyone for their patience.

‘All partner agencies are working together to find out the cause but this is a complex incident and finding answers will take time. I can assure the public that we are working hard to establish the full circumstances.’

Following the blast, four properties within the immediate vicinity have been identified as being likely to be demolished.

The latest update from South Ayrshire Council on Thursday said 389 homes within the Kincaidston area had been inspected and are safe to return to.

A council spokesman said: ‘There are 38 properties which are still within the cordoned-off area and are not yet safe to return.’ The council will call on those householders ‘to advise them of next steps’.