THE Lord Mayor of Chester has written to the Mayor of Beirut following the explosion in the city on the evening of Tuesday, August 4.

Cllr Mark Williams has written to express sympathy and condolences on behalf of the City of Chester.

He said: “The stories and accounts of the blast sound shocking and devastating, especially as it could be felt for miles around.

“My thoughts go out to all those who have been killed or injured as a result of the blast and to the families and loved ones of those affected.

“I would like to add my thanks and praise to the work of emergency and medical workers in responding to the disaster.

“I hope that in the coming hours and days more survivors can be found.”

At least 135 people were killed in the incident, it has been confirmed, with some 5,000 people injured and several still missing.

The blast destroyed and damaged buildings in the surrounding area.