A MAJOR clean-up operation was launched after a lorry carrying a hazardous chemical shed its load in April 2006.

Motorists who had used Accrington Road, close to the Network 65 industrial estate at Hapton, following the spill were warned by police officers that they could have the toxic substances on their vehicles.

They were advised to wash their cars and owners were told to protect themselves with gloves while doing so.

The incident caused traffic chaos throughout the area as the road was cordoned off while firefighters from the incident support unit cleared the chemicals from the road.

A police spokesman said: “We were informed that a heavy goods vehicle had lost its drum off the back of the wagon.

“A hazardous chemical was spilled on to the carriageway at Accrington Road.

“We are not aware that this substance is particularly harmful but motorists must wash their cars if they believe there is any chance that this substance may be on their cars.

“We know that a number of cars did drive through the chemical spill and are warning those who believe they did to take precautions.”

The road, which was closed for over two hours, was cleared by around 4.30pm.