Local residents are outraged at reports of suspected asbestos roof sheeting being dumped in the River Wye.

The waste, which was spotted in the water at Bridge Sollers, near Hereford, is believed to have been thrown into the river from the bridge.

Environment Agency officers say the material poses no threat of harm and they are currently working with Herefordshire Council to remove the sheeting from the water as soon as possible.

BBC presenter, Will Millard, expressed his anger too, saying: "This is absolutely disgraceful behaviour, endangering not only the entire ecosystem in this stretch but also the poor people charged with removing all the waste."

Council officers are calling on the public to come forward with information to identify those responsible. One spokesperson said: “Both Herefordshire Council and the Environment Agency are appalled that somebody has tipped what appears to be asbestos roof sheeting into the river from the Bridge Sollers bridge.

“We have been assured that there is no threat of harm to either human or aquatic life, and the council is working with the Environment Agency to remove the material safely, and as soon as possible.

“The council will prosecute anyone found to be guilty of a fly tipping offence in Herefordshire, and we would encourage anybody who may have information that could help to identify those responsible, to contact the council on 01432 261 761.”