Warning to stay out of the water at Surrey's Frensham Great Pond

There's a warning of potentially dangerous blue green algae at a Surrey beauty spot.

The algae which can be harmful to people and animals - especially children and dogs - has been found at Frensham Great Pond.

The Environment Agency confirmed the presence of blue-green algae, which occurs naturally in freshwater ecosystems, during a regular assessment of Frensham Great Pond.

Waverley Borough Council has issued a warning against entering the water.

Councillor Steve Williams, portfolio holder for environment and sustainability said: “Visitors to Frensham Common are being warned not to enter the water at Frensham Great Pond because of the occurrence of blue green algae – which was confirmed by the Environment Agency at its regular assessment on July 7.

“Blue green algae, as we probably know, is extremely dangerous for anyone, especially to dogs and children, and it can cause dermatitis, diarrhoea, irritation, rashes, blistering, abdominal pain, and nausea, and it’s pretty unpleasant.

“We’ve put up warning signs on the site, we have messaging on social media, and on the Waverley website, and our rangers are on site providing advice to visitors.

He added: “It is a seasonal thing, and we await the all-clear from the Environment Agency, but on past form this is not likely to happen until certainly well into the autumn, and November as it was last year.”

Frensham Great Pond, often referred to as Surrey’s secret beach, is managed by Waverley Borough Council as is one of only a handful of non-coastal sites to have been graded for its excellent water quality.

Its popularity can create its own issues, with overcrowding, litter, and traffic damaging its special environment.

Anyone who believes they have been affected by blue-green algae are advised to seek medical advice.

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