Initial concerns were expressed yesterday by the Petersfield and District Angling Club who contacted Petersfield Town Council to discuss their concerns and requested the Environment Agency carry out tests on the water.

Those initial tests have confirmed the likely presence of blue-green algae although this is still to be confirmed.

A further meeting between the Angling Club and Environment Agency is scheduled for Friday to consider the most effective way of dealing with the problem.

Some fish and wildfowl have already died and every effort is being made by the Angling Club to collect the carcasses as soon as possible.

The algae can represent danger to dogs' lives so all owners are requested to ensure their pets do not enter the water.

While the algae is not believed to be life-threatening to humans, it remains dangerous and can result in skin conditions and stomach infections - particularly to children who are in contact with the water.

The town council has been advised by the Environment Agency that the boating concession can remain open provided all those using the boats wash their hands thoroughly afterwards if there is contact with the water.