TESTING: Martin Wright, scientific officer at Vale Royal Borough Council's environmental health department, carries out some tests watched by John Watts and his daughter Caitlin. g051624

METHANE has been discovered in one of the houses in Muirfield Close, tests have revealed.

But the authorities believe it is because the owner of the property dug through the floor and the gas protection membrane in the floor was breached.

Owner Charlotte Doyle, whose daughter Gypsy was given the all clear after tests revealed she did not have leukaemia, was watching as the tests were being carried out.

She said: "The meter suddenly shot up well over half way. They said it was normal.

"I just want to know if they would move in with their wives and children if they knew there was some methane gas there."

Hopeful

Meanwhile residents came out of a meeting to discuss the estate's problems held at the Pillar of Salt Pub feeling more hopeful.

John Watts, of Muirfield Close, whose daughter Rebecca died of leukaemia said: "I came out feeling positive and I am hopeful that nothing will be covered up.

"Obviously they haven't got a lot of answers to the questions we have asked.

"I hope they find out sooner rather than later because it really needs to be sorted."

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, added: "I feel they are trying to ease minds by the tests they are going to do.

"I think Dr Keenan from Alder Hey is keeping them on the ball.

I don't think they would have taken the situation as seriously if he weren't pushing it.

"He obviously feels there is something not quite right and has got this in motion."