Probe into Crewe chemical plant blast

An investigation is being held into the cause of an explosion at a chemicals factory in Crewe, Cheshire.

Monday's blast at Aztec Chemicals in the Gateway industrial park was attended by 17 fire engines and 85 firefighters at its peak.

A 200-metre exclusion zone was set up around the premises was later doubled to 400m as the volume of smoke increased. By 9pm, this had been reduced to around 100m.

Efforts focused on cooling a number of gas cylinders close to the buildings and fighting the fire using a high volume pump, an aerial appliance and a foam tanker.

Nearby businesses were told to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed, although there is no confirmation that the smoke contains any toxicity. No homes or schools were affected.

Chief Superintendent Ian Hopkins, of Cheshire Constabulary, said: "The events of yesterday are thankfully very rare. However, they did demonstrate how effectively we were able to work together, ensuring the incident was successfully brought under control."

On its website, Aztec Chemicals, which produces aerosol products, states it is a leader in the production and supply of innovative chemical products in the UK and European market.

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