SIR, — I m relieved to read that five companies will face criminal proscecution charges for the Buncefield explosion. It was the biggest peacetime explosion in Europe since World War Two. I m concerned about the possible long-term health effects. Short-te

SIR, - I'm relieved to read that five companies will face criminal proscecution charges for the Buncefield explosion. It was the biggest peacetime explosion in Europe since World War Two. I'm concerned about the possible long-term health effects. Short-term breathing problems were caused by pollution particles.

The long-term threat comes from chemicals such as benzene and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. When breathed in they can cause changes in the body, releasing free-radicals which can cause cancer. Benzene is proven to cause cancer, blood diseases and DNA changes. No one should be exposed to these.

I hope these possible adverse health effects on local residents will be taken into account when charges are made or compensation is discussed.

A. Wills,

Dulverton Road, Ruislip, Middx.