FIRE crews were called to an explosion at an industrial unit in Verwood on Thursday afternoon.

Crews from Verwood, Ferndown, Ringwood and the Environmental Support Unit from Poole arrived at Ebblake Industrial Estate just after 4.30pm and 25 firefighters tackled the blaze.

The fire involved a small chemical cleaning plant which had malfunctioned, causing a small explosion and a fire involving chemicals.

Ground monitors were used and safety cordons were put up to ensure the safety of members of the public.

Once the fire had been extinguished, Dorset Fire & Rescue Service inspected the scene for any chemical leaks before damping down.

Neil Rickett, hazardous materials officer, said: “The fire service will be working with the Environment Agency to support them and we have also started a fire investigation.”