SHELL is writing to neighbours around its Stanlow manufacturing complex to remind them of the actions they should take in the event of a site emergency.

The correspondence also includes a note informing local businesses and residents of Ince, Elton, and Thornton-le-Moors of the hazardous chemicals which are stored on site – a requirement of the COMAH regulations (Control of Major Accident Hazards).

Shell public affairs assistant Rachel Evans said: “We and many other large industrial complexes are required by law to carry out this communication to neighbours living within a certain radius of the site.

“It’s important to stress that this letter does not mean that there is increased risk from our operations. However, we urge everyone to read the correspondence and retain the card.”