Bathing Water Alert Issued For Ryde Beach, Totland Bay And Colwell Bay

A bathing water alert has been issued for Totland Bay and Colwell Bay following a water pollution incident.

The warning comes less than 24 hours after a similar alert was put in place for Ryde beach, raising concerns about water quality at several Isle of Wight bathing locations.

The Environment Agency is advising people not to bathe or swim in and around Totland Bay and Colwell Bay while the alert remains in force.

Residents and visitors are being urged to avoid direct contact with the affected water, which may contain bacteria and viruses capable of causing illness.

Anyone who does come into contact with the water should wash thoroughly with soap and water. Officials say hand sanitiser does not kill all viruses that may be present.

Children and animals should also be kept out of the sea until the warning is lifted.

Further updates are available through the Environment Agency and Southern Water's River and Sea Watch service.

Anyone requiring further advice can contact Environmental Health on 823000.