An international expert on fracking urged an audience at the University of Chester not to push on with shale gas exploration.

Dr Mariann Lloyd-Smith held a talk for councillors, officers and the public on October 13.

More than 100 people attended the presentation which was organised by the Frack Free Dee Coalition.

Seismic testing has been taking place in parts of Frodsham , Helsby, Ellesmere Port and Chester to try to find pockets of shale gas underground.

Dr Lloyd-Smith drew on her experience with the industry in Australia and work for UN expert groups.

More than 100 people attended the presentation by Dr Mariann Lloyd-Smith at the University of Chester

Lache councillor Jane Mercer said “Having heard Dr Lloyd-Smith’s very informative and comprehensive presentation, I am convinced we should all oppose fracking as taking unnecessary risks for very uncertain gains.

“There are far too many uncertainties and too much evidence of environmental and social damage.

“Combine this with insufficiently robust regulations which are unlikely to be enforced in the current economic climate.”

Dr Lloyd-Smith is currently chair of the international working group on unconventional gas chemicals.

She said: “I wish someone had done the same for Australia before the industry took hold and the damage was done.”

Demonstrators have objected to the seismic survey, including a blockade at a site in Upton , as they see it is a precursor to fracking.

Anti-fracking protestors at the Upton site block in a vehicle belonging to a seismic testing company as police try and negotiate a solution.

Weaver Vale MP Graham Evans has said he will hold a consultation on the issue .

He said: “I’m concerned too, but can I say there’s nothing new about fracking.

“If you look at the scientific reports they say it’s perfectly safe as long as it’s done professionally.”

IGas Energy have contracted Tesla Enterprises Ltd to conduct the tests.

Jackie Ray, from Helsby , said “I have read how the air pollution from fracking can cause health problems for local residents.

“But what struck me about Dr Lloyd-Smith’s presentation is the large-scale industrialisation of our countryside which will also be required.”

Public awareness meetings on fracking will be held on October 28 at the Eccies Club, Helsby and at Frodsham Community Centre on November 4.

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