Poisonous algae is found in lake

Potentially toxic blue-green algae looks like scum on the water

People are being advised to stay away from a Northamptonshire lake after poisonous algae was found in it.

The Environment Agency tested a sample of water two weeks ago from Pen Green Lake, in Corby, which is owned by Anglian Water.

Results showed the water contained potentially toxic blue-green algae that forms in watercourses in warm weather.

The sample was taken from the Lee Shore area of the lake where the algae is thought to be mainly concentrated.

'Skin rashes'

The algae looks like a scum on the surface of the water.

Anglian Water said: "Warning signs have been erected to alert people to the potential dangers.

"People should not swim or fish and pets should be kept out of affected water.

"Contact with the algae could cause skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or pains in muscles and joints."