A recycling centre was closed this morning after an “unknown liquid" was left in an unmarked container by a member of the public.

Macmerry Recycling Centre was temporarily closed from about 11am while the fire service carried out checks on the liquid, to find out what it was, and to ensure it was disposed of properly.

The liquid was revealed to be red diesel and has now been disposed of. The centre  reopened about an hour later.

East Lothian Council has urged members of the public to ensure they notify staff at recycling centres if they are dropping off materials in unmarked containers. 

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “Macmerry Recycling Centre had to close for a period earlier today following the discovery of a container of an unknown liquid left on the site.

"The fire service attended to check the contents and confirmed that the liquid was red diesel which is used in agricultural vehicles.

"A range of materials can be recycled at the centres but need to be left in the appropriate areas.

"We would remind people that if they are unsure where to deposit their waste to speak to the attendants for appropriate advice and not to leave unmarked containers.

"The centre was able to re-open after a closure of an hour.”