The bosses at Fawley oil refinery has warned that it will be burning blue flares "over the coming days".

ExxonMobil, the company that runs the New Forest oil refinery, took to social media today to inform residents of the work, ensuring followers that the process is “completely safe.”

Flaring is a controlled burning of gases at a refinery which is primarily used for safety and waste management purposes.

The process sees unwanted flammable gases directed through a flare stack before being ignited, producing a flame.

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ExxonMobil's website describes the process as the "ultimate safety mechanism".

A spokesperson for the company said: "Over the coming days, you may notice something different that signals a bright future for Fawley.

"As we begin the start-up of our brand new Low Sulphur Diesel facility, our flares will be burning blue.

"The first stage will see us power up the new hydrogen production unit and then temporarily divert output to the flares while we connect the remaining units.

"We have safely produced hydrogen at Fawley for over 50 years, but this increased capacity creates more options for the future, including the potential for lower emissions fuels.

"The use of our flares is completely safe, but you may also hear some additional noise, which we are working hard to minimise.

ExxonMobil said it apologises in advance for any disturbance.