WORKERS delivering chlorine to a swimming pool were rushed to hospital after the chemical leaked.

Four people taking the chlorine to the Corporal Budd VC Gymnasium in Berechurch Road, Colchester, became unwell as a result of the spill late yesterday morning.

An exclusion zone was put in place at the scene located in Colchester Garrison, with nearby residents urged to keep their windows and doors closed shortly before noon.

It is understood workers delivering the chlorine to the gym’s swimming pool became unwell after inhaling gas emitted from it. They were taken to Colchester Hospital.

Gazette: Response - emergency services worked at the sceneResponse - emergency services worked at the scene

Soldiers at the garrison guarded a temporary barrier put in place to block traffic and residents from entering amid fears for public safety.

A Colchester Garrison spokesman added: “A chemical spill was reported at the swimming pool at the Corporal Budd VC Gym just before 12.30pm today.

READ MORE >> Huge emergency response as four taken unwell due to 'chlorine leak'

Gazette: Emergency - four patients were taken to Colchester HospitalEmergency - four patients were taken to Colchester Hospital

"Emergency services gave the all clear just after 3pm.

"The gym will be closed for a period of time for cleaning and the incident will be fully investigated in co-operation with the relevant authorities.”

The East of England Ambulance Service was called at 11.50am to provide medical treatment to those affected.

A spokeswoman said: “We were called to Berechurch Road following reports of a chemical incident.

“We sent three ambulances, an ambulance officer, rapid response vehicle and our hazardous area response team.

Gazette: Work - the view from Berechurch RoadWork - the view from Berechurch Road

“Crews treated four patients at the scene before transporting them to Colchester Hospital for further assessment and care.”

Leading the operation was Essex Fire Service, who provided a heavy presence at the scene throughout the early afternoon.

“We are at the scene of an incident involving a possible chlorine spill or leak at a premises in Berechurch Road, Colchester,” said a fire spokesman.

“Four casualties are in the care of the ambulance service and we have five appliances plus two specialist hazardous material units in attendance.”