Fed up locals are demanding action to tackle water pollution in the River Almond, with reports of sewage being dumped.
A petition calling for action on the water way has gathered over 1,300 signatures, with environmental campaigners blasting a local waste water treatment facility for dumping sewage.
Members of the River Almond Action Group in West Lothian said multiple wastewater treatment works "still regularly pollute the river", allowing combined sewage to enter it.
They added: "This has resulted in large stretches of the river and its bank sides littered with sewage debris which includes toilet paper, sanitary products, baby wipes and more.
"On many a hot day, children and many teens can be seen swimming in the river too, providing lifelong memories.
"Kayaker and anglers use the river as a lifeline to their respective sports which provides both physical and mental health benefits."
But FOI requests have revealed around 572,577 cubic litres of sewage have been dumped in the river in recent years by waste water treatment facilities, the RAAG found.
"The worst performing WwTW is Whitburn Sewage Treatment Works which overspilled 177 times during 2019. It alone discharged 334,976 cubic litres of untreated sewage," the petition reads.
"In addition, Blackburn Sewage Treatment Works overspilled 156 times during 2019."
One angler signing the petition said: "I have fished this river for over 40 years and seen it recover, however consistent pollution incidents such as this are unacceptable tome the operators were held to account."
A second person added: "This is disgusting. My dogs were in this river yesterday."
A third said: "This is a major focal point of West Lothian and Livingston in particular. That such a vital part of our town is so polluted is shocking. This must be stopped."
You can see the petition and the group's demands here.
