The Oldham gas explosion accused, a 27-year-old man, admitted to eight charges levied against him including killing of the two-year-old toddler Jamie Heaton and causing damage worth £1.2m to 13 neighbouring houses and surrounding streets in Buckley Street, Shaw.

The Oldham gas explosion took place on June 26, 2012, when the accused Andrew Partington, an unemployed father of six, left his house with gas overnight. Jamie Heaton died while watching TV when the blast levelled several homes in Buckley Street, Shaw. Neighbours found Jamie Heaton’s body in the debris which left his family devastated.

Toddler Jamie Heaton’s father Kenny was out working and his mother Michelle had gone into the backyard to dry out her washing, when the blast occurred.

Andrew Partington, himself succumbed to 40% burns and a broken back as a result of the gas explosion. The accused pleaded guilty through a videolink from prison in the Manchester Crown Court.

The Oldham gas explosion left 12 houses on the street in a debilitated condition. During the investigation it emerged that Andrew Pattington had had a spat with his girlfriend a few hours before the explosion.

During the brief court hearing, Jamie Heaton’s parents sat in the public gallery holding hands. They were flanked by police officers and other members of their family, who wiped away tears as the Andrew Paddington admitted his guilt.

Andrew Paddington was remanded in custody until February 11, when he will appear in court again to be sentenced after the preparation of psychological assessments.

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