AN investigation has been launched following a 'disappointing' error on an offshore wind farm which resulted in debris washing up on South Cumbrian beaches.

Swedish energy company Vattenfall said turbine parts fell into the sea at the Ormonde Wind Farm six miles off the coast of Barrow.

No one was hurt during the incident, however, there is debris from the turbine blades in the sea which has already begun washing up on Barrow beaches.

A spokesman for Vattenfall revealed the company has been targeting local communities along the coast nearby via Facebook to alert them to the fact that debris may come ashore, what it looks like and how to contact them should they find any.

He said: “An incident during planned maintenance at Ormonde Offshore Wind Farm resulted in components falling into the sea. No-one was injured, but we alerted the relevant authorities immediately and we have launched a full investigation.

“In addition to determining what happened, our attention is focused on ensuring that any debris in the sea or washing up onshore is cleaned up as quickly as possible.

"We are asking anyone who spots any debris which has arrived on land to call our reporting line on 0333 4141 912. This will assist our clean-up teams to identify and remove it as quickly as possible.

"The main message is that while the material is harmless, we’re asking people not to touch or move it and to call us on 0333 4141 912 so that our clean up teams can come a dispose of it safely as quickly as possible."

Furness Coastguard team was called out on Wednesday after reports were received that debris was washing up on the beach at Walney Island.

The energy company is urging the public not to remove the items themselves to ensure everyone can stay 'accident free'.

A spokesman said: "Don't attempt to remove the items yourself, but if you can let us know where you have found it and how much there is, our teams will be along to remove it as quickly as possible. The debris is not harmful but it's best not to touch it, just to make sure everyone stays accident free.

"We take environmental protection extremely seriously and are very disappointed that this incident occurred. We are working as hard as we can to get everything cleaned up, and appreciate your help to make sure we get this done as fast as possible."