SWIMMERS at a beach in Angus have been warned not to enter the water due to bacterial contamination, as an environmental watchdog has launched an investigation into the incident.
The local authorities have urged swimmers and paddlers to avoid the water at Monifieth Beach due to a high level of E. coli.
Angus Council has placed signs at the beach warning the public after it was made aware of the contamination by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa).
An investigation into the high levels of E. coli has also been launched by the environmental watchdog, which has taken further water samples to determine if there is any ongoing impact from the contamination.
A spokesperson for Sepa confirmed that the organisation's electronic sign at the beach has also been updated to advise people against bathing and paddling in the water until further notice.
A statement from Angus Council said: “SEPA has notified us of high levels of E. coli bacterial contamination in the water at Monifieth Beach and advises, as a precautionary measure while investigations continues, against people and pets bathing and paddling in the water near to Monifieth Beach until further notice.”
A spokesperson for Sepa said: “SEPA are aware of a high bacterial result at Monifieth bathing water.
“Our officers have attended and are currently investigating the cause of this high result and if required we will explore any mitigation measures.
“Further water samples will been taken from the bathing water to determine if there is any on-going impact.
“SEPA’s electronic sign at Monifieth has been changed to advise against bathing and paddling.
“Angus Council is placing signs at the bathing water to notify users of the high result and to avoid bathing and paddling.
“Advice against bathing will remain in place until SEPA is satisfied water quality at Monifieth is no longer impacted.”
