Clean-up starts after chemical leak from plant

Homes and cars neighbouring Ciba Speciality Chemicals in Low Moor were coated with a milky white substance after it escaped from a container and was carried over a wide area by strong winds.

Although the non-toxic liquid called Glasco - used in the production of paper - is harmless, the firm called in contractors to clear up the resulting mess.

Ciba spokesman Rodney Swalles said: "There was a reaction in one of the vessels which led to pressure building up and the material being released through a safety valve."

Mr Swalles said gusts of up to 40 mph had blown it from the top of the tall container on to roads and over properties up to several hundred yards away.

Firefighters, along with the company's own emergency team, were called to deal with the incident shortly after 3.45am on Tuesday.

The road was closed for around two hours while firefighters flushed the liquid away.

"Some of the material was blown on to neighbouring cars and homes and we were contacted by a number of residents about this.

"It leaves a mark like dried milk which will come off with detergent."

He added: "We have written to residents in the areas inviting them to have their affected cars cleaned at our on-site garage."

A team of contractors were summoned to clean windows, doors and other affected areas.

Anette Smith, 29, of Lowfield Close, said: "We didn't know anything at the time but when we woke up there was white powdery stuff over the windows and the car.

"Ciba posted saying we could take the car to be cleaned and that cleaners would be in the area today. They were really quick to respond and we were happy with that treatment."

Mr Swalles said: "It was our responsibility and so we will put it right immediately. We want to be good neighbours to the people of Low Moor."

He added that a full investigation into the leak, incorporating the health and safety executive and the Environment Agency, was under way and stressed the incident posed no threat to the public.