The public is being advised to keep themselves and their pets away from a pond in Mansfield, because of the presence of blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is present at Hermitage Local Nature Reserve.

Many areas of water are susceptible to blue-green algae between June and November. There is nothing that can be done to prevent or treat it but it will decline with the onset of winter weather conditions.

The algae can produce toxins which can harm, or even kill, animals and cause skin-rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and muscle and joint pain in people.

Dog owners are asked to keep their dogs on leads when they are anywhere near the pond and a warning sign has been put up at the site.

Coun Philip Shields, portfolio holder for the environment at Mansfield District Council, said: “Blue-green algae occurs naturally in mild and warmer weather. It tends to disperse naturally when the weather gets colder. Until then we would ask the public to ensure they and their pets avoid contact with the water in the ponds.”

For further information about blue-green algae, please visit the Environment Agency website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk