SITE operators Exxon have apologised to the public after another incident of flaring this morning (Friday).

An 'operating upset' has caused the flaring at the Fife Ethylene Plant.

A spokesperson said: "ExxonMobil Chemical Limited would like to apologise to the local communities for any concern or inconvenience caused as a result of the flaring from the Fife Ethylene Plant, Mossmorran.

"The flaring is a result of an operating upset on our main compressor.

"We are now working to return to normal operations and anticipate that the flaring will continue over the next 48 hours and we will provide further updates in due course.

"The flare is an essential part of the plant’s safety systems and there is no danger to local communities or employees. We would like to assure you safety and environmental protection are our highest priorities and that we will do all we can to keep flaring to a minimum.

"If you require any further information please contact Public Affairs on Tel 01383 737000"

There were three cases of flaring last year, with one in October and two incidents of thick black plumes of smoke filling the air in June, prompting local communities and politicians to call for action.

It was reported in January that cases of flaring at the plant had risen by 364 per cent in the past decade.

Figures published by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) show a rise from 39 in 2008 to 181 in 2016.