In a statement, an Island Energy spokesperson said: “Islanders may be aware that our gas engineers have been called to Le Clos Mourant in St Clements, following a publicly-reported smell of gas.

“Island Energy has a very strict policy and procedure in the event of a gas escape, and when we are called to attend, we use highly sensitive gas detection equipment, and follow a thorough process checking and monitoring the inside and outside of properties within the vicinity.

“Our engineers are currently on-site and working to locate, and repair the gas escape. The evacuation of homes and properties in the vicinity is precautionary, and again is best practice in these situations.

“We would like to thank the residents of the area for their understanding and co-operation and reassure them we are doing everything possible to get them back into their homes as quickly as possible.”

Islanders are being asked to avoid the area.

Follow Express for updates...