FIREFIGHTERS were called to deal with a leaking container found on the M40.

The container was discovered lying on the hard shoulder of the M40 southbound between junctions 10 and 9, and appeared to be leaking an unknown liquid.

Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service were called at 9.15pm last night by the Highways Agency to attend and deal with what was described as an oil-based product.

Fire appliances and specialists support vehicles from Bicester, Banbury and Oxford went to the scene, together with hazardous materials advisors from both Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Specialist monitoring equipment was used to identify the liquid leaking from the container as a low risk oil based product, which appeared to have fallen from a passing vehicle.
The container and the spill were quickly cleared up and removed for safe disposal by the Highways Agency.

Incident commander group manager Stuart Garner said: “ Through a multi-agency approach and the efficient work of the crews present, the objectives of identifying the liquid, preventing any damage to the environment and minimising the impact upon the users of this very busy road were quickly achieved and normality returned”.