Environment Agency says Trent safe after cyanide scare

THE Environment Agency today said samples taken from the River Trent had shown that the river is now back to normal.

Their officers have been on site at Red Industries of Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, after tests showed the presence of cyanide at the sewer discharge point used by the company.

On Tuesday the agency warned people and animals to keep out of the river between Stoke-on-Trent and Yoxall, after the pollution killed thousands of fish and made it a potential health risk.

The chemical disposal company have since been banned from dumping waster into sewers.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Normal recreational activities can be resumed, but we would advise people to observe personal hygiene precautions, as with any river.

"Don't drink the water, cover any cuts and sores, wash your hands before eating and shower after taking part in water sports, especially if you have capsized."

The agency will continue to monitor the river over the weekend.