Thirty containers of hydraulic and motor oil, some of which were leaking, have been dumped in a lane in Butleigh.

Just after 6.45pm yesterday (December 15) Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue control received a call stating there were several containers, some leaking fluid, lying in Cedar Walk, Butleigh.

A hazardous materials advisor was sent to the incident with a pumping appliance from Glastonbury and local supervisory officer for initial scene safety. The police and Somerset Highways were also informed.

On arrival crews located a number of containers and requested further personnel from Glastonbury in a 4x4 vehicle to assist with searching the lane. Searching crews found 30 containers, some leaking and running towards a water course.

An additional hazardous materials advisor, environmental protection unit and supporting appliance from Taunton were requested. The Environment Agency were also informed.

Firefighters wore personal protective equipment and respirators while dealing with the leaking substance.

A thermal imaging camera, gas monitor and chemical identification equipment were used. They also used small tools and Environment Agency-supplied equipment to contain the flow towards water course.

Testing of the substance concluded that the leaking substance was used hydraulic and motor oil. Overall 30 containers holding 25 litres each of oil had been discarded along the length of the lane.

Duty of care for clearing up was left with Somerset Highways and the police for further investigations.