No swimming alert at Surrey beauty spot
Blue-green algae found at Frensham Great Pond
People heading to a Surrey beauty spot are being told to stay out of the water - following the discovery of dangerous levels of blue-green algae at Frensham Great Pond.
Waverley Borough Council's urging visitors not to go swimming until the algae's been cleared and the pond has been reopened.
Blue-green algae naturally occurs in inland waters and can produce toxins called ‘harmful algae blooms’ that can kill wild animals and pets.
In humans, they can cause rashes and illnesses if swallowed.
Not all blue-green algal blooms and scums are toxic but there is no way to easily tell, according to the Environment Agency.
Frensham Great Pond is very popular in nice weather.
In the past, the council has asked people to avoid the famous sandy beach after “huge influxes” of visitors caused numerous problems including illegal and dangerous parking, barbecues, littering, dogs fouling, and abusive behaviour towards staff members.
Posting online, the council said: “Please be aware blue-green algae has been found at Frensham Great Pond, meaning visitors will not be able to swing in the pond at this time.”
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