The Scottish Environment Protection Agency and East Lothian Council are continuing to work together to respond to Friday’s pollution incident in the River Esk at Musselburgh.

East Lothian Council arranged for further booms and inspections to be put in place earlier today to contain material, monitor and further protect the environment.

The council together with its contractor is continuing to assess remediation measures to mitigate the impact.

SEPA officers have been on site monitoring the impact and continuing investigations into the cause.

Close monitoring of wildlife on the river continues, with any distressed birds being taken into care by the Scottish SPCA as space at their National Wildlife Rescue Centre becomes available.

Given the current national risk of avian influenza (bird flu), it is requested that the public do not touch or handle any birds but instead report these to the Scottish SPCA on 03000 999 999.

SEPA is unable to comment further at this stage given the matter is a live investigation and due to the potential for enforcement or criminal action.

SEPA has asked for anyone with information to contact its 24 Hour Pollution Hotline on 0800 80 7060, via sepa.org.uk/report or to contact CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

This pollution incident has been very concerning for local communities. We are very grateful to local people for their support and understanding during this incident.

Published: Tuesday, 18th January 2022