Pollution fears after dead marine life washes up

Jacqueline Bowler and her dog Jake live near Minnis Bay

Residents in Kent have raised concerns about possible pollution after dead marine life washed up on a beach.

The Environment Agency (EA) is investigating after it was notified about "thousands of dead and dying ragworms and lugworms" found on the beach at Minnis Bay, in Birchington-on-Sea.

Thanet District Council (TDC) said it was made aware of a possible pollution incident involving "harmful algae" at the beach and advised the public to "refrain from entering the water".

Resident Jacqueline Bowler, from Minnis Bay, was concerned about the advice ahead of half-term, saying: "All these people with beach huts, well they can’t go into the water. How do you keep children in a beach hut?"

The EA said it would analyse samples from the site to determine the cause of death of the ragworms and lugworms

The EA said it would analyse samples from the site to determine the cause of death of the ragworms and lugworms.

Ms Bowler said she saw "lots of brown sludge" on the coast.

Cherrie Boyes, also from Minnis Bay, added: "The sea looks quite black on the edge so we are just waiting to see what it is."

A TDC spokesperson said signs were put in place between Minnis Bay and West Bay in Westgate-on-Sea advising members of the public to stay above the high water mark.

Dog owners were asked to keep their pets on the lead when on beaches and the public was advised to keep out of the water.

Ms Boyes added: "With children it’s going to be difficult if they can’t be allowed on the beach in half term."