Pollution in River Bollin kills thousands of fish

Pollution which entered the River Bollin in Macclesfield has killed thousands of fish.

The Environmental Agency were alerted to the presence of a white foam in the river in Macclesfield, which was subsequently spotted in both Prestbury and Wilmslow.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "Thank you to everyone who has helped with our investigation to find out what caused the pollution on the River Bollin.

"We are aware of the circumstances surrounding this incident and have identified where the pollutant entered the river; however, investigations are ongoing to understand the source.

"We have traced the pollution back to an area to the South of Macclesfield Town centre. Officers are visiting premises in the area to see if any of their operations have caused this pollution."

"As always remain mindful about what goes down the drain and into the drainage system, especially detergents or substances that could cause a hazard – these small simple steps really do protect water quality.

"Please call our 24/hour hotline on 0800 807060 to report any further sites of pollution or have any information with regards to who may be responsible."

The Environment Agency confirmed to wilmslow.co.uk that the pollution, which has not yet been identified, has had a significant impact on brown trout and other smaller fish in the river. Fisheries officers have removed over 100 dead brown trout and identified thousands more smaller fish dead in the river.

A spokesperson Environment Agency added "The pollution which entered the river from an outfall serves an extensive area. For now, this pollution has stopped.

"It has now washed through and is no longer present."

Photo courtesy of Matthew Hodgson who took this picture the pollution in the stretch of the river running through Wilmslow Park North.