FACTORY workers in Pershore had to be evacuated after deadly nitric acid was spilled from a drum inside the building.

Firefighters in protective suits brought the situation under control at the Schloetter & Co factory, in New Road, yesterday.

The acid, which gives off fumes that can be fatal if inhaled, was spilled in the effluent plant section of the electro-plating chemical company.

Many of the 50 workers were evacuated and part of New Road was cordoned off as 20 firefighters disposed of the liquid.

Richard Whatcott, the company secretary, confirmed there had been an incident in the building, which is close to Abbey Park First and Middle Schools.

"There were no injuries - workers were evacuated quickly," he said.

Sub-Officer Mel Turbutt said the company had done everything right and the incident, which happened just before midday, had not caused any danger to the public.

"Our crews are in there in chemical protection suits, diluting it with water and sending it into a tank below the building," he said.

Five fire engines attended the incident.