WALKERS have been asked to be on their guard after fourteen barrels of chemical waste was dumped in a quarry.

The barrels, suspected to contain the remnants of resins and solvents, were found at Hutch Bank Quarry, off Grane Road in Haslingden.

The Environment Agency is now appealing for information to help track down those responsible for dumping the waste.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "We are appealing for witnesses to help bring those responsible to justice. Chemical waste can be dangerous and must be disposed of correctly. Fly-tipping this material is extremely irresponsible.

“We take waste crime very seriously and those who ignore environmental laws can cause serious pollution to the environment, put communities at risk and undermine legitimate business and the investment and growth that go with it.

“We are determined to make life hard for criminals and we will find those responsible for dumping this waste and bring them to account for their actions.

Walkers are asked to remain vigilant as the waste has not yet been removed.

If you have any information, contact 0800 807060 quoting reference number 01657335.