WORK to clear a contaminated mound of earth from an old tannery site in Dilton Marsh is almost complete.

The 8,000 cubic metre mound, christened Mount Everest, was contaminated with chemicals including arsenic and chromium.

Relieved villagers are pleased the clear up is almost over and that no emergency evacuation was required.

Parish council chairman Pamela Jones, of Broomclose Farm, said: "It is a relief as it has been a danger for such a long time."

The clean-up was prompted by developer Persimmon Homes (Wessex), to make way for an access road on a Westbury Leigh development.

Richard Briggs, managing director for Persimmon Homes, said: "The project was handled with the greatest care to ensure the safety of local residents and the construction team. By working closely with the local authorities, we are confident that this contamination has now been dealt with to the long-term benefit of local residents."

The villagers' main concern was that disturbing the mound, which has been there since the tannery closed in the 1950s, could cause it to slide towards nearby gardens.

Evacuation plans were drawn up by councils, health authority and police.

There was 24-hour security at the site to minimise health risks.

Work was due to start at the site in September 2001 but was delayed until summer while the best way of carrying out the project was investigated by the Environment Agency.

Parish council clerk Gordon Brockhurst said: "I hope the clean-up is finished before winter because heavy rain could cause remaining chemicals to leak into the soil."