Man missing after plastics factory blaze

Emergency workers are still unable to enter the site of a fire at a plastics factory to search for a missing man.

Homes were evacuated as explosions were reported during the huge blaze at Leeson Polyurethanes in Leamington Spa on Friday.

Warwickshire Police said in a statement: “Understandably, there is concern within the community in regards to the welfare of a man who remains unaccounted for following the fire in Juno Drive, Leamington.

“Unfortunately, emergency workers are still unable to enter the site of the fire.

“A specialist search operation will commence as soon as it is safe to do so.  However, this will be a very thorough and complex operation which may take a number of days to complete.”

The force said it is working closely with fire investigators and in collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

“It will not be possible to determine the cause of the fire until the site can be safely accessed and examined by investigators,” the statement added.

“The family of the missing man are being kept fully informed throughout the operation.”

Leeson Polyurethanes said: “We do not yet know the cause of the incident but are working closely with emergency responders, local officials, and our teams at the plant to determine what led to this incident.

“At this time, the fire is extinguished and we are cooperating with local officials on the next steps and convening our employees.”