Sidmouth algae blight will fade
RAW sewage-like slicks which have appeared off the coast of Sidmouth have been identified as algae.
RAW sewage-like slicks which have appeared off the coast of Sidmouth have been identified as algae.
East Devon District Council has put up signs this week warning people about the naturally occurring algal blooms following reports from beachgoers who discovered the strange sight over the weekend.
Managing director of Pecorama in Beer, Michael Pritchard, wrote to the Environment Agency and South West Water after he saw the algae off Branscombe Beach, which he thought was "muck" and described as revolting-looking.
He said many people thought it was raw sewage and he was worried about the effect the unsightly appearance of the beaches in East Devon would have on the tourism trade.
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A spokesperson for South West Water said the algae forms when the temperatures and conditions are "correct".
She added: "It isn't harmful and it will disperse eventually."
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EDDC is advising people not to wade or swim in the blooms, don't drink the water and make sure children are supervised at all times.
