Man killed in Edinburgh gas explosion named

James Smith died in the explosion in Baberton on Friday evening

A man who died in a gas explosion at a house in Edinburgh has been named.

James Smith, 84, was killed in the blast that flattened a home in the Baberton Mains area of the city and damaged several others on Friday night.

A probe by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) blamed an installation inside a property rather than an issue with the wider network.

A 43-year-old woman and a man, 54, were also taken to hospital following the explosion at 22:25.

In a statement issued through Police Scotland, Mr Smith's family said: "It is with deep regret that our father/papa/father-in-law, James Findlay Smith, sadly lost his life in the tragic events at Baberton Mains Avenue on 1 December."

They said their thoughts were with everyone involved and passed well wishes to the other families who had ben impacted.

The statement added: "We would like to thank the emergency services and the neighbours who went above and beyond for their support and help on the evening and following days."

Edinburgh City Council said it was helping a dozen people who had been evacuated from their homes.

A spokesman said no decision had been made on when residents would be allowed to return to their properties.

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An HSE spokesperson said: "The focus of our investigation relates to the internal gas installations at the property and not the network."

SGN Networks, which manages the gas distribution networks, said: "We initially worked with the emergency services to ensure the immediate vicinity was made safe in our role as the gas emergency service.

"We're working with Edinburgh Council to offer support to residents evacuated following the explosion.

"We'd like to reassure the local community that their gas supply is safe to use."

Police Scotland said there were no suspicious circumstances.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed two properties were affected and said Mr Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

He is understood to have lived next door to the property that was reduced to rubble.

One house was destroyed and the force shook dozens of properties nearby.

Rubble, including large chunks of masonry, was strewn across the street and several cars were also damaged.