Man, 67, killed after bungalow destroyed in devastating ‘gas explosion’ is pictured as tributes pour in

A MAN who has died after his bungalow was destroyed in a devastating gas explosion has been pictured. Tributes poured in for Steve Woodward, 67, who has been described as a “friend and neighbour” who will “never be forgotten”. Stephen Woodward, 67, has died from injuries caused by gas explosion that destroyed bungalow Credit: Jam Press Tribute have been pouring in since the news was announced Credit: Jam Press/Nicki Richardson True U The Wellness Hub Steve had been inside his home with his pet dog, Milly the Doberman, when the horror explosion occurred at the property in Newton Longville, Buckinghamshire, on Sunday morning. Steve sadly died in hospital after he suffered near 85 percent burns to his body during the explosion. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The Wing Sports and Social Club in Leighton Buzzard, where Steve was a member, has set up a fundraising page. It read: “On Sunday, 9 August, our friend and neighbour Steve’s life changed in an instant when a devastating explosion destroyed his home in Newton Longville Sadly, Steve has now passed away, and we are raising money in his memory to support the things that mattered to him and to give something back in his name. Locals told how they could smell smoke and gas following the explosion Credit: Jam Press/Nicki Richardson True U The Wellness Hub Bricks and tiles could be seen shooting hundreds of feet Credit: SWNS “Steve was so much more than a member of our club. “He was a friend, a familiar face, someone who could make people laugh, and a huge part of our club family. “His loss has left a massive hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him. “Every donation, no matter how big or small, will mean so much. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page so we can reach as many of Steve’s friends, family and wider community as possible. Most read in The Sun Shocking footage captured the roof of the bungalow rocketing into the sky Credit: BBC Steve was in the property with his dog when the explosion happened Credit: Jam Press “Thank you to everyone who has supported Steve, his loved ones and our club throughout this incredibly difficult time. “Rest peacefully, Steve. You will never be forgotten. “Thank you for your compassion and support during this heart breaking time.” Labour MP for Buckingham, Bletchley, Tattenhoe, Winslow and other surrounding villages, Callum Anderson, confirmed the tragic news. The politician stated: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Stephen Woodward following the gas explosion in Newton Longville last Sunday. “This is an absolute tragedy, and my thoughts are with Stephen’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time, as well as with all those in the wider community who have been affected or displaced by this devastating incident. “I know that a joint investigation is currently being carried out by the Health and Safety Executive and Thames Valley Police. “If you have any information that may be relevant to the investigation, please contact Thames Valley Police, quoting URN 660 and the relevant date. “My sincere condolences go to everyone impacted by this heart breaking loss.” The local council parish posted a tribute to Steve, saying: “Our deepest condolences go to Steve’s family and friends. “He will clearly be very much missed by this community.” Shocking footage captured the roof of the bungalow rocketing into the sky, before debris rained down on cars below. Further clips showed the home completely gutted with bricks, planks of wood and furniture scattered around it as a fire continues to burn. A neighbouring bungalow also appears to have its roof severely damaged, with tiles dangling off it. Locals told how they could smell smoke and gas following the explosion, but the fire department are yet to confirm the cause. Residents were evacuated from their homes as engineers from SGN, a gas distribution company, carried out safety checks. Det Insp Philip Turner-Robson said: “This is a tragic development and our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time. “Thames Valley Police is managing a coronial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the explosion and collapse of the property, working jointly with the Health and Safety Executive. “Our inquiries remain ongoing as we seek to establish the full circumstances of what happened.” More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun.