SUPERMARKET chain Morrisons could face compensation claims from small businesses closed yesterday by a petrol leak from one of its filling stations.

Pubs, shops and takeaways in part of Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, closed after almost 250 gallons of fuel seeped from an underground tank.

Morrisons had not found the cause of the leak last night, but safety experts allowed the petrol station to stay open.

Fumes had spread through sewers to premises in Newgate Street by Thursday afternoon.

Koppi Print was one of several shut yesterday after staff were greeted by fumes when they arrived in the morning.

Last night, Durham County Fire and Rescue Brigade advised a Chinese takeaway to remain closed and a couple living in a flat above another businesses not to sleep there this weekend.

Brigade experts warned that the fumes could spread to other premises, and advised anyone smelling petrol to dial 999.

Peter Robinson, landlord of the King's Head, which was closed until yesterday lunchtime, said: "We have all lost a lot of trade and we will be demanding compensation. The smell comes and goes. It makes you feel sick. We just want rid of it."

And a Koppi Print spokesman said: "Friday is one of our busiest days. We couldn't let anyone in.

"The fumes hit us when we arrived. We couldn't switch anything on it case they caught light."

Fire brigade petroleum officer Chris Matthews said traces of fuel had been found in effluent pipes.

He said: "Other properties could be affected. If anyone smells petrol they should not switch on any electrical appliances, smoke or use any naked lights."

A Morrison's spokeswoman said the seepage had been discovered during a regular check.

She said: "We are carrying out a thorough investigation. All the proper checks have been done at the petrol station and we have been advised that it is safe to remain open.