A WARNING to stay away from a chemical site in Northwich has been issued following a spate of recent incidents.

At least five incidents involving trespassers and would-be thieves at Tata's Winnington Works have been reported recently.

Police officers and Tata Chemicals Europe are warning people to stay away for their own safety.

The Winnington Works includes live operational buildings and infrastructure including chemical, steam and other potentially hazardous pipework, as well as live high and medium voltage electricity cables and substations, which can be lethal.

DS Simon Parker, of Northwich Local Policing Unit, said: "Officers, along with TATA Chemicals Europe, are becoming increasingly concerned about recent incidents involving trespassers trying to enter the site and we are urging people to stay away.

“Many of the redundant buildings on the site are structurally unsound and are in the process of being demolished.

"The presence of demolition work on site increases the risks to tresspassers. Derelict or unoccupied buildings may seem like an opportunity to explore, take photographs or items but this is not the case.

“I must also remind people that it against the law to trespass on private land and you can be prosecuted if found on the premises.”

TCE has stepped up its security, using 'very effective' technology, while officers are working in partnership with security staff at the site to target those involved in this sort of activity.

A Cheshire Police spokesman said officers will continue to work closely with TCE to ensure the public are safe, to help prevent crime and will have officers patrolling the area.

Residents are also being urged to report any incidents or any information to Cheshire Police by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.