Environment Agency investigates oil spill

The Environment Agency has launched an investigation to see if one of the country's most important rivers for salmon fishing has been affected by an oil spill.

A statement from the organisation last week urged people to stay out of the River Bourne in Hampshire until any potential effect of the leak has been discovered.

Individuals were also reminded of the importance of ensuring their pets do not go into the river until it is declared to be safe by the body.

Environment Agency manager Simon Moody stated it is a "major" spill, while officials have been sent to the scene in a bid to minimise the impact of the oil.

"Environment Agency officers have been out since first light doing everything they can to minimise the impact on the environment. We will be overseeing the clean-up and will launch a full investigation into the cause," he said, adding anyone with more information about the spill should get in touch with the body.

Although no dead fish have yet been reported, the agency is set to keep a close eye on the scene to see if the situation develops over the course of the coming days.

Booms and absorbent pads have been placed in the river by officials from the body in order to restrict the impact of the oil spill in the water.

Officers are continuing to work hard at the scene to cut the effect of the leak on the local wildlife, as well as fish in the river.

According to a report by BBC News, the source of the oil spill has been identified as Andover firm Vitacress Salads, while the leak is thought to have affected a six-mile stretch of the river.

Members of staff at the firm spotted the leak on Thursday (May 3rd) and managing director Mike Rushworth said the incident was "very regrettable".