Blue-green algae in park pond confirmed

Visitors to a city park are being told to stay away from a pond following the discovery of an algae which can be harmful to people and animals.

Tests had confirmed the presence of the naturally occurring blue-green algae at Hull's Pearson Park, the city council said.

Signs have been installed around the pond, with its fountains switched off to minimise the risk of contamination from water spray.

Councillor Charles Quinn, the authority's environment lead, said: "While these measures are precautionary, we're acting quickly to keep everyone, including animals, safe and healthy."

He added: "We're asking visitors to respect the measures in place, by not touching the water, and keeping pets on leads and away from the pond while we monitor the situation."

Blue-green algae thrives during hot spells, the council explained.

Dog owners have been urged to keep their pets away from the pond.

The authority said it would continue to monitor water quality, but advised the situation was unlikely to improve until cooler weather arrives.

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