Warning after sewage released into lakes

People have been told not to swim in lakes in Gosport, Hampshire, after sewage was illegally released into the water.

Southern Water said on Friday it found an illegal private connection in which sewage was flowing into a surface water drain from a block of flats instead of into a sewer.

Those affected are Haslar Lake, Workhouse Lake, Stoke Lake and Alverstoke Creek.

A Southern Water spokesperson said the company sent tankers to remove wastewater from the area.

"During this work, we also found damage to one of our pipes so are taking this opportunity to repair that too," they said, adding: "Sorry for any inconvenience caused while we carry out this activity."

A Gosport Borough Council spokesperson said water samples taken by Southern Water "indicated a high level of pollution".

Lesley Meenaghan, a county councillor for Leesland and Town, said the lakes would normally be "full of young kids and families enjoying the sunshine" on summer days.

"I know local residents are really upset by the current situation and let's just hope this situation gets resolved as quickly as possible," she added.

It comes days after beachgoers were warned against bathing between Hill Head and Lee-on-the-Solent after a sewage pipe burst.

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