POLLUTION in a river has killed tens of fish and changed the colour of the water.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is investigating a pollution incident which killed the fish on a stretch of the river Ebbw at Pilgrim’s Park, in Blaina, Blaenau Gwent.

Gareth Beynon from Blaina saw some of the dead fish.

He said: "I was shocked and saddened seeing the fish dying.

"I was concerned not just for the fish but for people who walk their pets and other wildlife. The river runs through the park where children play all the time."

NRW officers attended the scene yesterday following the report and confirmed the river had was a ‘milky’ colour.

Officers have not yet been able to find the source of the pollution and are asking the public for any information they have that could help.

The officers returned to the site today to continue their investigation and found the stretch of river was running clear but there were more than 50 dead fish of varying sizes in the river.

South Wales Argus:

Susan Fitzpatrick, Natural Resource Management Team Leader for NRW, said: “Keeping our rivers healthy for people to use and enjoy is so important to our wellbeing and our economy, so it’s important to deal with pollution as quickly as possible.

“We’ve taken water samples to try and identify the pollutant, which at present is not believed to be sewage-related but have not found the source so we are asking for information that might help.

“We have also sent a biologist to check the impact on bug life to determine the full extent and impact of the pollution.

“If we find the source we will make sure no further pollution is happening and will take enforcement action against those responsible if appropriate.”

If anyone has any information which might help in determining the source of this pollution call Natural Resources Wales on their 24 hour incident line 0300 065 3000.