Nine houses nearby were evacuated following the explosion (STV)
Nine houses nearby were evacuated following the explosion (STV)

Two pensioners have been taken to hospital after a gas explosion "totally demolished" a house in Callander, near the Scottish city of Stirling.

Emergency services were called following the blast at Murdiston Avenue. It is thought the explosion was the result of a gas leak.

A 74-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man have now taken to hospital. The extent of their injuries is not yet known. Nine houses around the scene of the blast have also been evacuated and Stirling council has set up a rest centre in the town.

Chief Insp Russell Penman said: "The house has been totally demolished as a result of the explosion.

"We are treating this as a suspected gas leak and inquiries are at a very early stage to establish the cause. Scotland Gas Networks are in attendance and working with us."