ASBESTOS is being removed after it was found on a Bolton housing estate where work to improve heating systems is being carried out.

Workers found a small amount of the potentially dangerous fibres behind a boiler and chimney flue in a house in Green Avenue, Great Lever.

Twelve council homes are being investigated and any abestos found is being removed. If it is present in all 12, it is likely the whole estate of nearly 100 homes will also have the material.

Health and safety officers say the asbestos is safe if left untouched.

A spokesman said the work was being carried out to give tenants a choice with their new heating systems.

He said: "We will consult residents in the properties where we expect the asbestos to be present. Once we have the results we can make a judgement on what we will do."

But some residents fear the asbestos, which measures 18 by 24 inches, could be dangerous and should be removed.

One pensioner said: "Workmen turned up in masks and protective overalls and started doing work on some of the other houses down the street. A neighbour told me they were removing asbestos and it really frightened me.

"If there is asbestos in my chimney the council should remove it, but I don't think they will take it away because I bought the house. I'm worried for my own safety and I'm worried for the safety of my grandchildren. I don't want them to visit me while this work is going on."

Asbestos used to be a common material in building work and people who buy houses should have surveys done and be told if it is present.