Warning of blue-green algae at city park

Two ponds in Hull's Queen's Gardens are believed to be infested with blue-green algae.

Hull City Council said samples taken from the western side of the gardens would be tested to determine if blue-green algae is present.

The authority put up signs earlier to advise visitors to avoid contact with the water and to keep dogs on a lead and away from the ponds.

According to the Environment Agency, blue-green algae can be toxic to people and animals.

It can cause rashes following skin contact and illness if swallowed.

The algae can also be fatal to wildlife, livestock and pets if ingested.

The council said the fountains in the ponds had been temporarily switched off to reduce the risk of contamination.

Officials would continue to manage water oxygen levels to protect the fish and maintain the health of the ponds, a spokesperson added.

The eastern pond and the Rose Bowl will be monitored and the fountains will be kept on there to reduce the chance of blue-green algae occurring.

Councillor Charles Quinn said: "Ensuring everyone's safety and wellbeing is our top priority, which is why we have acted quickly following concerns about possible blue-green algae in the ponds."

Blue-green algae, technically known as cyanobacteria, is a collection of microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams.

Under certain conditions, it can become abundant in warm, shallow, undisturbed, nutrient-rich surface waters that receive a lot of sunlight.

When this occurs, it can form blooms that discolour the water, or produce floating mats or scums on the water's surface.

The algae will naturally disperse when it gets cooler.

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