A manhole cover at the junction of Bank Street and Mortimer Street was blown 60ft. into the air “above the height of the TV aerial on Barclay’s Bank” when sewer gas and coal gas combined to cause an explosion. Inspection covers were also blown off in surrounding streets. Fortunately the explosion happened at 8.20am, so no injuries were reported. Emergency services were quick to the scene, and Gas Board experts were called from Ramsgate.