LAST night's severe storms has led to flaring at Mossmorran.

And the chair of the Mossmorran Action Group was unhappy at what is happening.

Plant bosses blamed "extreme weather" for what they described as a "process upset".

In a statement released within the last few minutes, Jacob McAlister, plant manager, said: "As a direct result of the extreme weather and associated electrical impacts, we have experienced a process upset.

"As part of the plant’s safety and operational procedures, we are using our elevated flare.

"Our team are working to evaluate requirements to return to normal operations and to minimise the time in the flare.

"We stress that the use of the flare is completely safe but we apologise for any concern or disruption caused.

"We will keep you updated on our progress but do let us know if you have any questions."

James Glen, chair of Mossmorran Action Group said: "As pupils return to school for the first time in five months amid heightened fears abut their safety, there is an irony that in Central Fife they are accompanied by a terrifying bout of extreme flaring at Mossmorran. Once again Exxon are responsible, and this just underlines how totally unacceptable their proposal to delay essential noise mitigation work is.

"The plant is not fit for purpose and the Scottish Governemnt needs to put the health and safety of residents first."