STALYBRIDGE TORNADO: MP reveals he thought something had 'blown up' in kitchen as tornado hit his home

An MP has called for help for residents who may not be insured after their homes were devastated by the tornado.

Stalybridge and Hyde MP Jonathan Reynolds said: "I was at home when it happened and I thought something had blown up in my kitchen.

"Hail stones were hitting the house so you could tell it was a significant storm right away. I think the time it has happened has meant no-one has been hurt because they haven't been out and the roads haven't been as busy. It's brilliant no-one has been hurt but it's going to take some time to clear.

"The big challenge is so many trees have fallen on roads and there is a shortage of resources getting them to the side of the road.

"Everywhere you go slates have come off roofs and I am really worried about people who haven't got the insurance they need. It's going to take some time.

"It's always a busy time for the emergency services over Christmas, but you don't expect a tornado.

"We will have to see how best we can help people who do not have insurance. This is not a small event."