October 10, 2017 3.31 pm This story is over 88 months old

Aerial pictures reveal extensive police and army operation after Woodhall Spa mustard gas find

The investigation continues.
The scene above the lake at Stixwood. Photo: Lincolnshire Police

Emergency services and the armed forces are continuing their search at a lake in Stixwould, more than one week after mustard gas canisters were discovered in nearby woodland.

The Royal Navy Bomb Disposal Dive Team, Army Bomb Disposal team, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, East Midlands Ambulance Service, Lincolnshire Police and the Environment Agency are currently at the site near Woodhall Spa.

The investigation continues as emergency services and the army remain on scene. Photo: Lincolnshire Police

Two bottle diggers discovered the canisters on Sunday, October 1 in the Roughton Woods area, with the pair sustaining minor burns and respiratory problems after disturbing the gas.

Both are now out of hospital.

Photo: Guy Owen for Lincolnshire Reporter

Over the following week, searches were conducted in the surrounding area, with the focus now appearing to be at a lake in Stixwould, north of Woodhall Spa.

Three people have been released on bail in connection with the police investigation, with officers also searching a house on Longdales Road in Lincoln.

Superintendent Phil Vickers. Photo: Lincolnshire Reporter

Superintendent Phil Vickers said: “I am satisfied with the progress being made so far. Protecting the public and responders on scene remains our priority, so all agencies are working in the safest way possible to achieve that.

“We are also at Roughton Moor Wood in Woodhall Spa and can confirm that a total of 11 boxes have been located, with the search ongoing.

“We are working with East Lindsey District Council and Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust to consider whether any restriction on access to the site may be appropriate for the future.

“I’m grateful for the support of all of the agencies involved and positive comments from the local community.”

Photo: Guy Owen for Lincolnshire Reporter

A public meeting will be held at the Petwood Hotel from 6.30pm on Thursday, October 12, where the army, police and East Lindsey District Council will provide updates to the community and information on addressing the issue of contaminated land.

There will be an opportunity for the community to ask questions.

The council has also set up a new webpage to keep the community informed of updates at the site.

Three people released on bail as navy bomb squad called in to aid mustard gas search