TEN firefighters training how to rescue blaze victims ended up in hospital - overcome by toxic fumes.
They were on the first floor of their practice tower behind the fire station in Heath Road, when they were overcome by a mystery 'chemical'. They were rushed to hospital, suffering from breathing difficulties and stinging throats.
The 10 firefighters were held in isolation as doctors carried out a series of tests.Emergency pumps were put on standby as both Runcorn fire engines were left with no crew.
Evan Morris of Cheshire Fire Service, said: "Hospital staff were sampling for chlorine, hydrochloric acid and other general organic substances. They carried out ECG tests, respiratory tests and blood tests. We're awaiting some test results."
He said the environmental health had been informed. The firefighters returned to duty at 2am.
The mystery toxic cloud struck at 7.52pm on Sunday. No company has claimed responsibility. Ineos carried out air monitoring tests and confirmed they could not detect a leak from their plant.
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