THERE has been no major incident at Hartlepool’s nuclear power station, police have confirmed.

Social media rumours began circulating this afternoon when representatives from the emergency services and the armed forces were spotted at the plant, operated by EDF Energy.

A post on one Facebook page told followers that a major incident had occurred, sparking concern across the Teesside area.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: “Contrary to social media reports and comments that are circulating, there has not been a major incident at Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station.

“We haven’t had anything reported to us of this nature, and having spoken with EDF Energy press team they have confirmed it was a planned training exercise that takes place every few months, hence the activity at the station itself.”