One man has died in an underground accident at a potash mine in one of Europe's deepest mines.

Rescue teams at Boulby potash mine had been dealing with a problem involving the release of gas, Owners ICL UK said.

The firm said the worker, who has not been named, died following a "sudden and powerful release of gas" in the early hours.

Other employees who were in the mine at the time were safely evacuated, a spokesman said.

The mine makes potash for fertilisers and employs about 1,100 people.

"The incident is believed to have involved a gas blow-out - a sudden and powerful release of gas," the spokesman said.

"Her Majesty's Mines Inspectorate has been informed.

"Company staff will be offering all possible support to the man's family. All other workers in the mine at the time of the incident were safely evacuated."