Major fish pollution identified

The source of a chemical leak that killed thousands of fish in a Cumbrian river has been identified.

More than 4,000 fish died when a cloudy milk-like substance appeared in a 1.9-mile (3km) stretch of the River Ellen in Bullgill on July 29.

Environment Agency investigators have now identified the source of the pollution but are not revealing the identity until their probe is complete.

It is believed a blend of chemicals caused the problem.

Appropriate action

The river has now almost recovered and most of the pollutant washed away in high waters and heavy rain.

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency said: "The number of dead fish is still estimated at 4,000 and this has included salmon and trout.

"Most of the residual pollution has been washed away and our investigators do not believe there has been any long-term damage caused to the area.

"It is believed a blend of chemicals caused the pollution and we are still awaiting test results. The source of the pollution has been identified and they are co-operating fully."

She added "appropriate action" would be taken when the investigation was completed.