COUNCIL officials have launched legal action against the owners of a garage which was destroyed in an explosion.

Oxfordshire County Council is suing Leda Properties, also known as Sutton Courtenay Tyres, for costs after the explosion in January 2008.

About 100 people were evacuated from their homes after gas cylinders exploded.

County Hall spent thousands of pounds on the operation.

Council spokesman Marcus Mabberley refused to comment on why the legal action was being taken and how much money was being sought.

A hearing took place at Oxford County Court last week. The case is due to be heard there again on a date yet to be set.

No one from Leda Properties was available for comment.