A GAS leak in the centre of Limavady led to a number of schools in the Co Derry town being evacuated.

Pupils in schools surrounding the Irish Green Street area were forced out of class as firefighters were called to the scene.

Police also closed off nearby streets, with a PSNI spokesperson saying cordons were put in place at Benevanagh Drive, Connell Street and Rathbrady Road, with motorists told to seek alternative routes and the public advised to avoid the area.

It is understood construction had been taking place in the area when the gas leak occurred.

A spokesperson for the NI Fire and Rescue Service told The Irish News appliances from Limavady fire station and Derry were called to the scene.

A PSNI spokesperson said last night: "The Irish Green Street and surrounding areas in Limavady have now fully re-opened following an earlier gas leak."