Lake reopens following algae closure

A lake-attraction which closed last week after blue-green algae was found has reopened.

Alderford Lake near Whitchurch said it had taken the move to suspend water-based actitivities as a precaution, but lab results suggested it was safe to reopen.

It said it would continue to monitor the water quality and asked people to shower, clean swimwear and wetsuits and wash their hands after using the lake.

It also advised against swallowing the water or entering the lake with open wounds, and said dogs must not go into the lake or drink from it.

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, leads to poor water quality and the production of harmful toxins.

It can harm people, causing rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed, or can potentially kill wild animals, livestock and pets if ingested.

Alderford Lake said its latest lab results suggested "moderate levels of blue-green algae" and after taking guidance it had decided to reopen the lake.

As well as advising people to take precautions, it said it would ask visitors to sign an acknowledgement form before taking part in water-based activities.

All bookings will stand, it said and testing would continue.

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