Swimmers warned after suspected algae find

Large blooms of non-toxic algae are common, especially along the coast in the summer, officials said

People have been advised not to swim along parts of the Lincolnshire coast after algae was discovered.

In a social media post, East Lindsey District Council said algae had been found in the water at Sutton on Sea.

While the algae is non-toxic, it could cause irritation to the eyes and skin, the authority said.

"Please avoid entering the water until further notice," a spokesperson added.

The council said temporary warning signs had been installed in the area.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency (EA) said the restrictions were expected to remain in place until 11 September.

According to the EA’s website, it is easy to mistake algal blooms for sewage due to its “unpleasant smell”.

Large blooms of non-toxic algae are common in British waters, especially along the coast in the summer.

When these blooms break down, they can create a creamy brown foam on the water's surface, which can smell like eggs or vegetables.

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