Public alert after chemical spill

A chemical spill at a scrapyard in Greater Manchester has led to a health alert.

Anyone who might have come in to contact with the poisonous mercury, which leaked from the disused yard in Heywood, has been warned to seek medical attention.

It is understood up to two kilos of the chemical spilled at the Britannia Street yard on Thursday, and hundreds of warning letters have been sent to homes in the area.

GPs and hospital emergency departments have also been alerted to the incident, following concern that young people might have been able to access the yard.

'Protecting health'

Health and council experts have secured the site and are arranging for it to be decontaminated.

Adrian Watson, chief environmental health officer for Rochdale Council, which now owns the yard, said: "Anyone who knows the whereabouts of any of the mercury or of anyone they suspect may have been exposed to it should to come forward for help.

"We are interested only in protecting people's health. We are here to help and support anyone affected.

"People should not fear recrimination or criminal prosecution."

Symptoms of mercury poisoning can include visual disturbances, kidney and nervous system damage, as well as breathing difficulties.

Glittery clothes

Health experts are warning that people who have come into contact with the mercury should seek a medical examination, even if they are not suffering any symptoms.

Residents are advised not to handle the mercury and any clothes that are contaminated should not be washed and be bagged for collection by environmental officers.

Liquid mercury is about 13 times the weight of the same volume of water and makes clothes look glittery if it comes in contact with them.

Anyone with concerns should contact 0161 786 6741.