Tremors and thumps from seismic testing have been shaking up residents in Helsby.
Disturbed locals have described feeling vibrations in their homes caused by underground charges used to search for shale gas.
Alex Dedman, of Bates Lane, Helsby said: "We felt a series of about five or six tremors and the upstairs of the house shook quite violently.
"My daughter was napping and it was strong enough to wake her up.
"I've spoken to neighbours and many people said they hadn't been warned about the testing."
Tesla Enterprises Ltd are conducting the tests for IGas Energy.
The survey area has taken in parts of Ellesmere Port, Elton and Frodsham, but activity is now moving south through Helsby, Alvanley and Bridge Trafford.
Surveyors are expected to work down to Tarvin and Littleton.
Adrienne Baines, of Parkfield Drive, Helsby, said: “It’s affected a lot of people, for me the walls actually shook.
“The booms built up as the tests came closer to my house until it felt like they were coming from beneath the property.
“Everyone is worried the survey could be causing damage to their homes.”
An anti-fracking demonstration was held outside the Helsby Parish Council meeting on September 14.
IGas had said some ‘minor vibrations’ may be felt from the seismic testing process.
Aiming to show the likelihood shale gas is present underground, the company have said they will publish the results of the survey once it closes.
An IGas spokesman said: “The seismic survey is being carried out within statutory guidelines and proven safe distances.
“The gathering of seismic information has been a common and routine operation in the UK for some 40 years now.
“The data recovered, together with the recent two-dimensional seismic and exploratory drilling data, will help us build the best possible picture of what lies beneath our feet.”
Boreholes are drilled into the ground, then seismic charges are laid down and detonated from inside.
Reflected sound waves can be analysed to map the geology of the area and reveal any pockets of gas.
Chris Clarke, from Helsby, tweeted: “I heard a funny noise in my house, a thumping upstairs. Couldn’t find source. Turns out, local fracking research.”
Tesla are asking landowners’ permission to conduct the tests, as a Cheshire West and Chester Council decision means the survey cannot be done on council-owned space.
Both the Helsby Parish Council and CWaC have said there will be a public consultation if any fracking application is made.
Related: Upton fracking protesters to stage demonstration at parish council meeting
IGas will hold a community day for those wanting more information at Chester Rugby Club on October 8.
They have also offered to give parish councils individual presentations so questions can be raised.
Did you feel any disturbance from the seismic testing? Tweet us @ChesterChron, email mike.fuller@trinitymirror.com or let us know in the comments below.
