COUNCIL chiefs and MPs are calling for calm after rumours Britain could be ambushed with deadly chemicals in the next step in the 'War on Terrorism'.

Since terrorists attacked the USA two weeks ago fears have been mounting in this country that biological weapons or implements containing deadly toxins could be used as part of the terrorists germ warfare.

Even the owner of an army supplies shop has seen a surge in sales of gas masks as the panic-buying of respirators in New York sweeps across the Atlantic.

But 'quarter master' Barry Clare, of The Bunker, Preston Road, Farington, in Leyland, believes people are wasting their money buying gas masks and admits he has not even got one for himself.

He said: "I had queues outside on Monday morning, and gave the remains of my stock out on Tuesday.

"But it isn't worth panicking -- I haven't even kept a gas mask for myself.

Water

"And even if you did have a brand new gas mask, and plenty of water to stop yourself dehydrating, you would only last 48 hours anyway."

Speaking from London, South Ribble MP David Borrow reiterated Mr Clare's words.

He said: "A lot of the gas masks people are buying are not going to provide enough protection from the chemicals that could be used nowadays."

Despite Lancashire County Council (LCC) being on red alert -- with security at its buildings and checks on water supplies being stepped up -- officers say people should not panic about the threat of a terrorist attack on the UK.

"County Hall being on red alert is normal practice when there is any incident such as a terrorist bomb blast," a spokesman said.

Ron Matthews, South Ribble Borough Council's head of support services, is responsible for working with LCC to implement the plans in an emergency.

He said: "We have got officers working with the emergency services, and senior management are doing a table-top exercise in October and November.

"This isn't especially to deal with America, but it is up to date, and we will implement them if we have to."

But in tackling the 'War on Terrorism', both Preston and South Ribble's MPs have backed Prime Minister Tony Blair as he prepares to join forces with the USA to combat the perpetrators of evil attacks as witnessed in New York when hundreds of British people lost their lives.

However, they believe people in Preston and South Ribble have little to fear and should remain calm.

Preston MP Mark Hendrick said: "Britain is going to take action along with the United States but I don't think people at the moment have a great deal to worry about.

"There isn't too much cause for concern at the moment. Things may change -- nobody has a crystal ball, but I await with interest the debate that has been called at the House of Commons next week.

"I will have plenty to say myself."

Mr Borrow added: "I'm not convinced the risk is any greater now than it was three weeks ago.

"Experts say there is no particular evidence to say that the UK is at risk."