THE company behind a controversial search for shale gas in Lancashire has insisted it takes its responsibilities ‘very seriously’.

Cuadrilla Resources began looking for the energy in an underground stretch between Blackpool and Pendle Hill last year.

But after concerns were raised about links to minor earthquakes in the Fylde area earlier this year, Cuadrilla has postponed its search.

The company has ceased ‘fracking’, which is where water is pumped into the ground to try and flush out shale gas.

In the US, some have said that the practice contaminated water supplies, a claim denied by supporters like Cuadrilla.

Mark Miller, the firm’s chief executive, said: “We take our responsibilities very seriously and that is why we have stopped fracking operations to share information and consult with the relevant authorities and other experts.”

Cuadrilla said it expected the consultation would take ‘a number of weeks’, after which it would take a decision on whether the ‘fracking’ could continue.