Mystery fuel fumes investigation

A PROBE was launched into fuel smells emerging from the drainage system in parts of Annan. Investigators from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are trying to establish the cause of the odours. Residents in the Scotts Street and Queensway area of the town reported an acrid diesel-like smell emerging through drains. And firefighters were called to Scotts Street and to a similar, possibly unconnected, incident almost a mile away in Summergate Road. One family living in Scotts Street say their lives have been disrupted for almost a week because of the smells. Laura Jack and her partner, ex-Scots Guard Garry Scholes, have had to keep windows open all the time they are in the house. Clerical worker Laura revealed their three children, Janet, seven, Anna, six, and Adam, four, had felt unwell because of the fumes and had gone to stay at a grandparent's home. She said: "There have been a lot of people in this neighbourhood complaining and behind us in Queensway. "Our heads have all been buzzing. It's a strong diesel kind of smell. It's awful and makes you feel really ill. It's not the best of weather but we've had no alternative but to keep the windows open." Officials from Trading Standards, Building Standards, Environmental Health, Scottish Water and SEPA have been trying to establish the cause. The proprietor of the near-by Hill Service Station, businessman Gurina Punia, stressed that exhaustive tests had shown there was no leakage from his pumps and tanks. He said: "It is worrying for local residents and I hope the authorities can establish what is causing these smells soon." A spokesman SEPA said an oil leak was a possible source and added: "SEPA will continue to work with both the local authority and Scottish Water to ensure any potential impact on the environment is minimised." He added that they would encourage residents to report any fuel smells they experience in around their homes. NEWSDESK: 01461-202417