ST HELENS MP Shaun Woodward has praised emergency services for the way they responded after arsonists set fire to dangerous gas cylinders beside a railway line.

Woodward, the Labour MP for St Helens South and Whiston, visited Sutton this morning to see for himself the work police and fire crews had carried out to secure the area around Carole Close.

More than 100 homes had to be evacuated after tyres placed around highly flammable gas cylinders were set alight.

There were grave fears they would explode prompting 99 crews to throw an exclusion zone around the areas.

At least 11 families had to be put up in hotels overnight, while Star readers have said Sidac Sports and Social club was used for shelter.

Speaking after visiting the scene, Mr Woodward said: “Merseyside emergency services have done an amazing job to protect local residents.

“Their speedy action and their bravery have ensured local people were spared what might have been a tragic set of events.

“We should now wait for the police to carry out a proper analysis of the scene to discover what brought about this very serious risk to local families.

“I urge anyone who has any information or may have seen any unusual activity to come forward and contact the police.”