Probe launched amid concerns over 'fumes from plane fuel' at Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Residents described an 'unbearable smell of kerosene' last week and raised concerns that it could cause respiratory problems for elderly people and young children. Airport chiefs confirmed they have received complains and launched an investigation.

One of those who alerted them to the problem was businessman Byron Pagin, aged 53, who lives in Auckley just two miles from the Finningley-based airport.

He said: "The kerosene smell was unbearable. It made me feel ill, I could barely catch my breath. Young children or elderly people with respiratory problems could be in real danger healthwise.

"I am sure the hospital will have had more people in with breathing problems because it it is so bad. "

Mr Pagin, who runs a hanging basket firm, said some of his customers and family members had also reported the smell - which was at its worst last Friday.

He said: "It happens about once a week. Maybe there has been a leak or an aircraft might have shed fuel."

Mr Pagin added kerosene is a well-known component of aviation fuel and said he would now raise an official complaint.

Rob Cooke, operations director at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, said: "We are aware of a small number of complaints of this nature on which we have worked closely with Doncaster Council and the environmental health team to understand in more detail.

"We actively work with the council and the environmental health team to ensure that we are meeting all required standards."