A MAN was taken to hospital for precautionary checks after a reported chemical leak at Teesside Airport yesterday afternoon.

The man, a security guard, discovered a leaking chemical container in a freight hanger.

Firefighters were called and staff were evacuated from the area while it was cordoned off.

Tests later showed the chemical was a harmless liquid detergent.

The man was checked and released after being taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital.

John Waiting, a spokesman for the airport, said the alert, which detained firefighters at the scene for about an hour and-a-half, had not disrupted flights or affected passengers.

He praised staff and firefighters who responded to the chemical leak.

He said: "Until we knew exactly what this chemical was it was prudent to take precautionary steps.

"Everybody responded in the proper manner and the local fire brigade resolved the problem."