Warning over lake algae outbreak

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A warning has been issued after potentially toxic algae was discovered on one of north Wales' biggest lakes.

Environment Agency Wales is warning organisations and landowners near four-mile long Bala Lake - which is known as Llyn Tegid in Welsh - in Gwynedd.

The blue green algae was found late on Friday, and it has the potential to produce toxins when it blooms.

People and animals which come into contact with the water might get a rash or become ill if they drink it.

The lake is the latest to be affected by toxic algae over the summer.

Environment Agency Wales is continuing to monitor the situation in those lakes too.

Naturally occurring event

A spokeswoman said samples taken from Bala Lake late on Friday afternoon were tested and analysed.

The results confirmed an algal bloom was present in the water and the species are anabena and gomphospaeria.

"This is a naturally occurring event when conditions are suitable, notably warm weather, still waters and direct sunlight," the spokeswoman added.

The spokeswoman said organisations and adjoining landowners were in the process of being notified.