An explosives testing facility was due to open in Cumbria today.

DNV GL has extended its site at RAF Spadeadam, north east of Brampton, to include a fire and explosion demonstration area and a training and conference centre.

The company - based in Oslo, Norway - carries out large hazard tests, including flammable gas, fires, explosions, pipeline fracture tests, blast and product testing at the site, which is the largest of its kind in the UK.

The centre is designed to allow it to offer more specialised training to companies and other organisations.

It was due to be opened by Lord Cullen of Whitekirk.