**Emergency Evacuations in Lancashire Due to Gas Leak** Residents in a Lancashire town were evacuated from their homes this afternoon following a significant mains gas leak. The incident occurred around 2pm in the areas of Chapels and Goose House Lane, where a 'hissing' sound was reported by locals. Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and representatives from the gas network management firm Cadent, quickly arrived on the scene to assess the situation. Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council confirmed that Goose House Lane was closed from Hollins Grove Street to Lower Eccleshill Road, extending to the junction with Chapels Brow. Gordon Street is also closed, with diversions in place as Cadent investigates the leak. At 1:37pm, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service dispatched two fire engines from Darwen to respond to the reports. Crews remain on-site, assisting Cadent Gas with the ongoing investigation. Witnesses reported a deep hissing sound emanating from behind the police cordon, which has been audible since the early afternoon. One resident described the alarming experience, stating, "I was walking home from town with my shopping when I saw the fire brigade here. They let me go inside to get my inhaler. The smell of gas hit me like a brick wall." In a statement, Blackburn and Darwen Borough Council advised residents in the immediate vicinity to keep their windows closed as a precaution. They urged the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues, promising to provide further updates and advice as the situation develops.