Residents in five homes in Workington have been told they can not yet return due to localised levels of naturally forming methane gas.

Allerdale Borough Council is continuing to advise the residents of the properties in Pilgrim Street to remain out of their homes.

The advice is a precautionary measure to ensure the health and safety of the residents of the properties affected, while further monitoring takes place over coming days both within the properties and the surrounding area.

A statement issued by the council today states that the risk is being managed by ventilating the properties which is keeping the methane concentrations within the properties at a safe level.

"The council has been in direct contact with all the residents and is giving them full support," it adds.

"The council apologises for any inconvenience to those affected."

Residents were originally advised to evacuate their properties on Friday - September 14. Find out more here

Allerdale Borough Council’s Environmental Health officers have been working with Northern Gas Networks to monitor methane gas levels in the local area.

It has become clear that this is an issue with naturally forming methane gas, rather than mains gas.

If local residents need to speak to the council in an emergency on this issue they should ring 0303 123 1702.