Contamination probe after River Mersey oil spill

The oil spill entered the mouth of the River Mersey near Leasowe bay

An investigation was launched after an oil spill in the River Mersey.

The Environment Agency (EA) is probing the incident, which saw a spill from the Stanlow Refinery make its way to the mouth of the River Mersey, about 12 miles away.

The spill has meant Leasowe cockle fishery has had to close while possible contamination of cockle beds is investigated.

EET Fuels, which runs the refinery, said it took immediate action and alerted the EA.

'Price will drop'

The North Western Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Association (NWIFCA) said the cockle fishery will not be opening as planned on 30 September, following consultations between the Food Standards Agency and Mersey Port Health Authority.

“The opening of the fishery currently remains subject to the assessment of the risks and when the conditions allow for it,” it added.

Simon Ward, who fishes for cockles on the north Wirral shoreline, said fishermen would lose money because of the closure.

He said: "The price will likely drop to a pound per kilo in the winter.

"Now it would be £1.50 a kilo but by the time we get into November... if you get around 500 kilos a day, you’re losing about £250 a day."

A spokesman for EET Fuels said: "We activated the well-established processes we have in place to deal with this type of incident.

"We have also undertaken inspections to identify any potential impact on the waterways.

"We will continue to cooperate fully with the EA."