RADIOACTIVE material was not involved in the ignition of a blaze at a laboratory in Birchwood yesterday, Thursday, a spokesman for the company has said.

Firefighters were called to the AMEC Foster Wheeler on Faraday Street following reports of a blaze at 2.30pm.

At the height of the incident eight fire engines were at the scene.

Cheshire Fire cordoned the area off as they fought the blaze, which was extinguished by 4pm.

A spokesperson for Amec Foster Wheeler said: “A small fire broke out this afternoon when solvent came into contact with a hot plate in a cupboard at our Analytical Services Laboratories in Birchwood, Warrington.

“Three members of staff in the laboratory were safely evacuated and nobody was hurt.

“Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service quickly brought the fire under control.

“People nearby were advised to keep windows closed as a precaution but this advice was lifted shortly afterwards. 

“No radioactive material was involved.”