Potential oil spill investigated at Blyth beach as Environment Agency issue warning
People are being urged people to avoid bathing in waters in Blyth as a potential oil spill is investigated.
A ‘strong-smelling substance’ has been identified after forming a sheen in water and on the sand at South Beach in Blyth.
A pollution incident was logged on the Environment Agency water quality website on Tuesday, August 11 at 5:10pm.
Investigations are currently ongoing and beach-goers, including dog owners in particular, are being urged to avoid the affected areas.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "We are continuing to investigate this incident and have taken samples for analysis.
“As a precaution, we are urging people, particularly dog owners, to avoid the affected area until we know more about the substance and any potential risks. Advice against bathing in waters at this location is also in place while our investigations continue.
“We are working closely with Northumberland County Council and other partners and will continue to provide updates as our investigation progresses."
Northumberland County Council commented: "The Environment Agency has made us aware of a pollution incident at Blyth Beach
"A strong-smelling substance has been identified after forming a sheen in pools of water and on the sand.
"Investigations are ongoing, but as a precautionary measure we are asking visitors to the area not to bathe in the water at this time."