A BARDON Mill factory has been cleared of wrongdoing following claims over dust and smoke emissions.

Eric Dodd & Sons produces wood shavings from pine, which are used to provide bedding for horses.

Monitoring equipment was installed by environmental chiefs over a three-month period between October and January.

It followed a complaint from a member of the public, who claimed emissions from the factory were a health concern.

But on Tuesday this week, Northumberland County Council said that all monitoring equipment had now been removed, and that there were no plans to take further action.

A spokesman for the council said: “Detailed monitoring with appropriate equipment was carried out from October 2015 to January 2016.

“The results of the monitoring confirmed that any emissions from the factory in Bardon Mill did not constitute a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.”

Geoff Dodd launched the family business with his brother Richard about 15 years ago, bringing an old colliery yard, at the Larches, back into use.

The business bears the name of their father Eric, and employs one worker.

Geoff Dodd said: “We have been monitored at least six times over the years, and have always been cleared of any wrongdoing.

“We have always acted in accordance with regulations, and have always done exactly what the council has asked of us.

“We will always be open and honest because we have got nothing to hide.”