Vandals blamed for chemical spill in Peterborough

Vandals have been blamed for causing a chemical spill that led to the deaths of many fish in the River Nene at Peterborough.

Safapac, which is based near Peterborough, was targeted by the criminals, who released 5,000 litres of hazardous chemicals into storm water drains.

Martin Steele, managing director of Safapac, explained the break-in happened on either June 16th or 17th, adding: "Safapac has been manufacturing and packing hazardous chemicals for more than 15 years and has never had an environmental incident."

Staff had discovered the problem on Monday morning and raised the alarm, with the Environment Agency called in to investigate the incident.

A spokesperson for the Food Standards Agency added the body has now completed its risk assessment at the site and it is thought there will be no impact on the shellfish harvested from the River Nene.

Norman Robinson from the Environment Agency stated he expects rain to dilute the chemicals in the river to the extent they will no longer be harmful to fish.