By Chloe Goodall Jon Hebditch
Locals have been warned against swimming at a Scots beach amid a sewage leak. Inspectors at Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA ) found the outbreak Dunbar East Beach and have issued a stern health warning. After routine testing on Tuesday, July 1, elevated bacterial counts were found sparking a SEPA probe into the matter. Reports of “sewage” in close proximity to the beach bathing water also reached the agency. A representative for SEPA remarked: “A routine sample taken on 1st July as part of SEPAs bathing water quality monitoring program indicated a high bacterial result at Dunbar East Bathing Water in East Lothian. “We were also made aware of a report by a member of the public about sewage near the bathing water. This was reported to Scottish Water on the 2nd July.” In light of potential health risks, SEPA is discouraging swimming and paddling at the East Lothian locale and has put up updated signs to inform the public, reports Edinburgh Live . “We are temporarily advising against bathing and paddling as a precautionary measure while we investigate. Signage has been posted to advise against bathing, which will remain in place until the water quality returns to a satisfactory level. Further water samples will be taken on 7th July. “SEPA are liaising closely with East Lothian Council and Scottish Water, and we will continue to work together to monitor the situation.”