A MAN has been arrested after a van collided with a gas main, causing families to evacuate their homes in the early hours of this morning (Sunday).

Emergency services were called at 1.06am to reports of a Volkswagen van crashing into the mains on King Arthurs Way.

Nearby residents were evacuated until the area was made safe by the Gas Board.

The driver, a 35-year-old man from Andover, was arrested for driving whilst unfit through drink, aggravated taking of a motor vehicle, and driving a motor vehicle when alcohol level is above the limit.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the man remains in custody.