Tributes to 'truly lovely person' after explosion

A friend of a woman killed in a house explosion has described her as a "truly lovely person" who was part of the local community.

Police were called to a domestic-related incident minutes before the blast at the home in Sterncourt Road in Frenchay, near Bristol, at about 06:30 BST on Sunday.

A man also died while another man, a woman and child were taken to hospital for minor injuries following what Avon and Somerset Police described as a "suspicious" explosion.

Those injured have since been discharged from hospital, while officers continue to search the home. The man and woman who died have not been formally identified.

Trifonova, who manages a local corner shop, said she had known the woman who died for nearly a decade, describing her as a "truly lovely person", who was "friendly and chatty" and "always brought positive energy".

"We got to know her as more than just a customer - she felt like part of our community," she said.

She said she did not know who had died until Monday, when a mutual friend came to share the news, which left her in "real shock".

"Our focus is on remembering her and supporting those who knew and loved her," Trifonova said.

"We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

A large cordon was put in place on Sunday morning, but has since been removed.

Armed officers directed residents to a nearby Harvester pub while the cordon was in place. Manager Helen Bull said about 30 people arrived at 07:00, a number of them were elderly and many were wearing nightclothes.

Police said "almost all" residents could now return home but those still affected were being helped by Bristol City Council.

In a press conference on Sunday afternoon, Supt Matt Ebbs said officers had carried out inquiries at a property in Speedwell in the city that was linked to the man who died.

He said police were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident but said it remained a "complex and sensitive investigation".

Specialist searches were also carried out by the British Army's Explosive Ordnance Disposal, as a precaution.

There was not believed to be any significant damage to other properties, police said.

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