Following reports of a pollution incident in the River Esk, SEPA officers supported by East Lothian Council have been on site in Musselburgh to investigate.

Water samples were taken and will be analysed at SEPA labs.

As of Saturday SEPA officers had identified the source of the pollution and were confident it was no longer discharging into the water environment. It may take time to dissipate with continued discolouration and odour, which is expected to decrease in the coming days.

In support of SEPA, East Lothian Council officers have been back out on Sunday morning. They put absorbent pillows in place in order to protect the watercourse.

SEPA are continuing to investigate the cause of the pollution and monitor the situation, but are unable to comment further at this stage due to the potential for enforcement action.

As a precaution, we would advise owners not to allow their dogs to go into the water at this time.

The Scottish SPCA are aware and have been in attendance.

Published: Sunday, 16th January 2022