HUNDREDS of Portchester residents were returning to normality today after being forced out of their homes by fears of a major blast.

More than 400 people were evacuated early on Saturday following an arson attack on a shed which contained a highly-dangerous oxyacetylene gas cylinder.

Fire and police crews together with county and borough councillors carried out the major emergency evacuation.

Experts said if the cylinder had exploded it could have gone off like a torpedo.

A community centre was opened to offer people food, drink and shelter while temporary hotel and bed and breakfast accommodation was sought for anyone who didn't have friends or family living nearby. Residents were finally allowed to return home yesterday lunchtime.

See www.thisissouthampton.co.uk full story and pictures