Warning as deadly toxin found at beauty spot

An urgent warning has been issued after a toxicology report confirmed a deadly toxin has been found in a much-loved beauty spot.

The harmful substance presents a serious public health risk and was discovered in the waters around Crosby Marine Lake in Merseyside.

All activities and events have been cancelled until further notice as tests confirmed the presence of the highly toxic blue-green algae.

Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, a popular visitor attraction by the lake which facilitates a number of water-based activities, is open as normal, though the lake itself is closed.

Coming into contact with this form of algae can prove life threatening to animals and cause serious health problems in humans including rashes and vomiting.

The area is also popular with families, as well as dog walkers who use the coast to exercise their pets.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said Sefton Council issued the warning earlier and was working closely with the Environment Agency to find a resolution.

According to the Environment Agency, not all blue-green algae blooms and scum are toxic, but it is impossible to verify using sight alone.

It said in cases of suspected blue-green algae, the official advice is always to err on the side of caution.

Sefton Council have acted quickly and notified local residents via a statement published on social media which said: “Unfortunately, due to an outbreak of blue green algae, the lake at Crosby Lakeside will be closed until further notice.

“The site is working closely with the Environment Agency to test the lake and is taking steps to address the issue, looking to reopen at the earliest opportunity.

“Crosby Lakeside apologises to all our lake users for any inconvenience but assures everyone that the matter is completely out of our control and the safety of our lake user groups is our main priority.”

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