A brook has turned a striking shade of blue after a pollution incident which has caused severe environmental damage and been placed in the most serious category.
Photographs of Littleham Brook in Exmouth show the water running bright blue as the Environment Agency continues its investigation into what entered the brook and how much was released.
The agency has not yet identified the pollutant but has said it suspects an industrial source.
The incident has been classified as Category 1, which the Environment Agency described as its most serious pollution category.
The Environment Agency said: “Our investigation continues, including work to identify exactly what the pollutant is and how much has entered the brook. We suspect it is from an industrial source.”
It added: “We've classed this as a Category 1 incident, the most serious pollution category. This reflects the severe environmental impact and the significant time the brook will need to recover.”
The agency said it was meeting East Devon District Council, the UK Health Security Agency and the Animal and Plant Health Agency to review its advice concerning bathing at Exmouth and public health guidance relating to the brook.
It said: “We're meeting this afternoon with East Devon District Council, the UK Health Security Agency and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. Together we'll review our advice against bathing at Exmouth and update public health guidance relating to the brook.”
People are continuing to be advised to avoid bathing at Exmouth and avoid contact with Littleham Brook.
The Environment Agency said: “Please continue to avoid bathing at Exmouth and avoid contact with Littleham Brook until we advise otherwise.”
It added: “We'll share updates as soon as we have more information.”
The agency is also appealing for information which could assist its investigation.
It said: “Please get in touch if you have any information that might help our investigation: DCISEnquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk”
The latest information was published by Environment Agency – South and South West on its Facebook page.
Share