Orange gas cloud released over town

The orange cloud which was seen over Billingham
The cloud was seen floating over Billingham [SARAH ROWLING]

An orange gas cloud has been released over a town from an industrial plant.

CF Fertilisers said "an incident" at its nitric acid plant in Billingham had resulted in the gas, which the company said was "nitrous oxide", being emitted on Friday afternoon.

A spokesman, who claimed there was no risk to the public, said sensors at the plant had automatically shut the facility down. The gas release stopped within five minutes.

Cleveland Police said there had been no reports of injuries or impact off site.

The company said there will now be a full investigation into the release, which prompted significant speculation locally.

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