Gym evacuated after chemical leak

Nine workers were treated at the scene and then taken to hospital.

A gym in Bournemouth was evacuated after a male member of staff was overcome by fumes from a chemical leak.

Six fire engines and at least 30 firefighters were sent to Fitness First in Queens Park South Drive, Charminster, at about 0930 GMT.

Nine workers were treated at the scene and then taken to hospital.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service said 25 litres of a hypochlorite solution, used for cleaning pools, somehow became mixed with sodium bisulphate.

A spokeswoman said that when the products are mixed they produce sulphur dioxide, which is relatively harmless, and chlorine gas, which is toxic.

The chemicals have now been removed and the air conditioning system is being used to ventilate the building.