TRACES of asbestos have been discovered among materials sent to a laboratory Bourne End.

Engineering firm Costain said the traces were discovered during a routine investigation at its site in Wessex Road.

It added in a statement: "Costain uncovered materials which have been confirmed to contain as yet unquantifiable traces of asbestos.

"These materials were sent to Bourne End laboratory before the presence of asbestos had been confirmed.

"Asbestos samples have been contained within the laboratory to manage the exposure risk until further tests have been carried out."

The firm did not wish to comment when asked whether the site has been closed while the tests are completed.