Popular lake temporarily shut after algae found

Alderford Lake offers several water activities including open-water swimming

A lake in Shropshire that offers outdoor swimming, paddle sports and an aquapark has closed due to algae on the water.

Managers at Alderford Lake, near Whitchurch, said blue-green algae had blossomed "severely" overnight on Wednesday.

It said it had made the decision to lose the lake to all water activity and would be contacting people with bookings on Thursday and Friday.

"We're awaiting delivery of a treatment dose that typically works quickly," staff said on social media.

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.

Algae blooms, like the one shown here in London, are not uncommon in warm weather

Visual checks of the lake would be undertaken daily, bosses said, and a decision would be made about whether to open on Saturday by Friday at 17:00 BST.

"We will never put anyone's safety at risk. The lake will only reopen when we're confident it's safe to do so," they added.

The announcement comes in the midst of hot weather, which the Met Office expects will reach heatwave conditions across much of the UK.

"We know this is the last thing anyone wants heading into the weekend - including us," the social media post continued.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding while our team works hard behind the scenes."

On 7 and 8 June, the site suspended all water activities after algae levels reached the moderate warning threshold based on WHO guidance.

Visitors were strongly advised against swimming, however those who chose to do so were required to sign a disclaimer.

This suspension remained in place until 17 June.

The lake also closed in June 2022 after algae was found in the water.