EMERGENCY services were tonight continuing to monitor an ongoing “complex and difficult” situation following a second incident at a steel plant, where two people were killed last week.

In the early hours of today, further "explosion-like" activity took place at the former SSI site in Redcar.

Police reported there was a “loud noise and release of a plume from a tower” but added that additional activity was expected in the aftermath of last week’s explosion.

Police, fire and other emergency services remain on the site.

Ray Khaliq, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: “Over the last 24 hours we have had two backdrafts from one of the vessels.

“The situation continues in two vessels and the fire brigade, along with other emergency services, are on site dealing with the incident and making plans to bring it to a safe conclusion.

“It’s important to note that this is a very complex and difficult incident because fire continues inside two of the vessels.

“However, while this incident could go on for a few days, there are no risks to people and the local community off site.”

A spokesman from Cleveland Police added: “We would like to reassure the public that this activity was anticipated and planned for. As we have said previously, there is the possibility of further similar events.

“We would like to thank nearby residents and businesses for their co-operation and understanding while the situation remains on-going.”

Fire crews first attended the site in South Bank, Redcar, at about 2.15pm on Thursday September 19, after a blaze broke out on the premises.

On Friday morning, Cleveland Police confirmed two men had died in the incident.

The blast appeared to have engulfed the two workers who were on a blue cherry-picker at the time, working at a height.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said a ‘full and thorough’ investigation will be held once the situation on site has been resolved.