Environmental investigators are trying to find out why a major river has suddenly turned green.
Residents in Radcliffe woke up this morning (Monday) to find that the River Irwell had changed colour overnight.
The reason for the unusual switch in shades is unknown but the Environment Agency has confirmed that investigators are looking into the cause.
It has prompted speculation from residents, with dozens of people commenting on a post in the local Spotted: Radcliffe Facebook group.
It is not the first time that the colour of the river has changed. I n 2014 scientists found that pollution caused by calcium carbonate in the water had created a similar issue.
In that case the water turned first green and then a shade of milky white.
Following reports from local homeowners this morning, an Environment Agency spokesman told the Manchester Evening News that staff would be sent to the site to analyse the water.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “The Environment Agency has received reports of the River Irwell in Bury having turned green.
"Officers are now investigating these reports.
"Members of the public can report incidents like this to the Environment Agency’s incident hotline 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60.”
The change in colour can be seen from the Blackburn Road bridge in Radcliffe.
A further update on the cause of the incident is expected once the Environment Agency has finished its investigation.
