Slurry pollution on local beach (From Tivyside Advertiser)

Slurry pollution on local beach

12:32pm Friday 11th June 2010

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Environment Agency Wales are continuing to investigate a pollution incident affecting a Ceredigion river and nearby beach.

Officers attending the incident have identified the source of pollution as slurry from a land spreading operation. This has affected approximately 5km of the Afon Ffynnon Ddewi and ended up on Cwmtydu beach.

Although Cwmtydu is a non-designated bathing water it is very popular spot for local people and tourists.

John Hogg, Environment Manager for Environment Agency Wales, said: “This is an unfortunate incident that could have been avoided. Although the farmer may have been caught out by the thunderstorms and heavy rain, this was a high risk field as it had land drains.

“We would encourage farmers and contractors to follow the Code of Agricultural Practice on spreading. If they follow the code they can avoid being caught out in the future.

“If any farmer needs advice on good practice they should call their local officer. If they ring our Lampeter office on 01792 325861 and ask to speak to the Ceredigion team they will be able to help.”

Ceredigion County Council have also put up signs advising people to stay away from the beach until the pollution has cleared.

A spokesperson for Ceredigion County Council said: “Ceredigion County Council confirms that visitors to Cwmtydu are being notified that farm slurry has entered the stream that runs onto the beach.

“Members of the public are advised to keep children away from the stream and not to bathe or surf on this beach until further notice. Environmental Protection officers will be monitoring the position and will be taking steps to issue further guidance in due course.”

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