Blue-green algae discovered on the north coast

Blue-green algae have been found on the north coast of Northern Ireland.

At the beginning of August, scientists discovered an increase in potentially toxic algae in Lough Neagh.

The disease had already been detected in the Bann River system and scientists warned that it could spread along the north coast. Due to its presence, bathing waters in Portstewart and Portrush were closed last year.

A report submitted to the Bloomin' Algae app of a suspected sighting at Barmouth between Portstewart and Castlerock was confirmed over the weekend.

Swimming is not recommended in Barmouth as it is the mouth of the Lower Bann River and is not a designated bathing area.

As a precaution, the National Trust has put up a notice encouraging people to swim.

No notices have been issued at designated bathing areas in the area; bathing areas remain open to swimmers.

Patrols have been increased by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and local bathing water operators, including the Causeway Coast and Glens Council and the National Trust.

It was widely expected that the large-scale blooms in Lough Neagh gradually make their way across the Toome Canal along the Lower Bann.

The recent heavy rainfall is likely to have caused the water level in the lake to rise and contributed to the mobilization of the algae clumps.

It is potentially toxic to pets and dog owners are advised not to let their dogs come into contact with the algae.