A FACTORY was evacuated after a stray spark created an explosion which hospitalised a worker.

450 staff followed emergency procedures to clear the plant at Fox's Biscuits in Batley this morning.

The man in hospital is believed to have been working on cleaning out a diesel tank which then exploded in a yard.

He was taken to Pinderfields suffering from burns to his legs.

Reports suggested at least five others were treated for minor injuries.  

The explosion is believed to have hit the Wellington Street factory at 10.45am leaving a number of workers "walking wounded".  

Firefighters attended the accidents site and carried out checks. They remain on scene.  

It is understood that the Health and Safety Executive are already on site investigating.