Banham Poultry evacuated in suspected chemical incident

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service were called at around 10.40am this morning [Wednesday August 4] to an incident at the poultry factory in Attleborough.

A spokesperson confirmed the incident was a hazmat leak and not a fire.

Pumps from Attleborough, East Harling, Thetford and Sprowston were in attendance, with crews using breathing apparatus.

They added everyone has been evacuated from the factory.

Fire crews could be seen outside of Banham Poultry in Attleborough on Wednesday August 4. (Image: Chris Cope)

People living nearby had been warned to keep doors and windows closed and to avoid the Station Road area.

Ambulance crews and police are also at the scene.

An eye witness said he had seen people being taken out of the Banham Poultry premises in wheelchairs.

Blaine van Rensburg, managing director at Banham Poultry, said the situation is being monitored by emergency services, who have been at the scene since this morning.

In a statement he added: “Emergency services have been on site since this morning to monitor the situation and to ensure safety.

“The specific area has been monitored and no chemical residues could be detected.

Fire crews could be seen in Attleborough on Wednesday August 4. (Image: Chris Cope)

"Further monitoring is currently being conducted and the area should be released pending the results being favourable, which we expect them to be.

“The exact cause is unknown at this stage but is reported to be a reaction between cleaning chemicals. This is extremely unlikely as these solutions are used daily, without incident.”

This is a breaking news story. Be sure the check back on the website for further updates as they come in.

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