Pollution, which has affected a brook in Dymock this week, could be one of the worst incidents the Environment Agency has dealt with in the last ten years.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency told the Ross Gazette they were informed on Friday, July 22nd about the pollution. They said, “We received a report of pollution in Preston Brook in Dymock, Gloucestershire, which is a tributary of the River Leadon.

“An Environment Agency officer immediately attended the site, identified the source of the pollution and stopped it. There is no danger to public or groundwater water supplies.

“We are expecting to see a significant number of fish killed as a result of this incident. Our teams are out sampling water quality and monitoring the health of life in the river. We are informing local farmers and communities about the incident and working closely with partners to reduce any further impact to the environment.”

The agency has also been in discussion with Severn Trent Water who are currently releasing additional water into the river. This will help dilute the pollution as well as provide a refuge for fish in other tributaries on the River Leadon.

The spokesperson added: “This is potentially one of the worst pollution incidents on a water course in the Herefordshire and Gloucestershire area in the last ten years, and we are considering all of our enforcement and legal options against those responsible. We are unable to comment on the source of the pollution at this stage while investigations are ongoing.”

If anyone notices signs of fish in distress please contact the incident hotline on 0800 807 060.