An urgent warning has been issued after potentially toxic algae was found to be growing in the water at a popular Lincoln park.

City of Lincoln Council has said that blue-green algae has been discovered in the lake at Hartsholme Country Park.

The Environment Agency has been informed but for now the message is to avoid the water as it can be dangerous for both humans and dogs.

Signs have been put up around the park and the council has also put out a warning on its Facebook page.

It reads: “We have identified a potential case of blue-green algae at Hartsholme Country Park and have alerted the Environment Agency.

“Some types of blue-green algae are toxic to humans and animals and it is essential that people and their pets do not come into contact with the lake water while the algae is in bloom.

“Signage has been placed around the park warning people the algae might be present and to stay away from lake water, and will remain in place until we are satisfied there is no danger.

“Green-blue algae blooms occur naturally in non-flowing fresh water and will dissipate in their own time, and we will continue to monitor the situation until we are certain the water is safe."

What is blue-green algae?

What is it?

Blue-green algae is a term used to describe a group of bacteria, called cyanobacteria, according to the Blue Cross.

They are not actually algae, but the organisms got this name because they often give the appearance of algae when they clump together in bodies of water.

Blooms of the organisms often build up around the edges of ponds and lakes, which may look like foam.

It is most common in non-flowing fresh water such as lakes and ponds during hot weather when there is less rainfall, but can also occur at other times of the year.

You may notice dead fish in ponds or lakes with a high concentration of the toxic bacteria. Don’t let your dog drink from water containing dead animals.

What are the symptoms?

  • Skin rashes
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pains
  • Fever
  • Headaches
  • In rare cases, the algae can cause liver and brain damage.

If you do come into contact with it, shower in fresh water immediately.

What does it do to dogs?

The RSPCA told the BBC: "Exposure to these toxins can cause serious health problems for dogs and can even prove fatal.

"We'd urge dog walkers and owners to keep their pets away from any body of water that you suspect may contain blue-green algae. Don't let them paddle or swim in the water and don't let them drink from it.

"If you are concerned your dog may have been exposed to blue-green algae or your dog is vomiting, disorientated, excessively drooling, having difficulty breathing, suffering diarrhoea, collapses or suffers seizures, please contact a vet immediately."

Dozens of people have tagged friends and family to warn them not to let their pets into the water.

It comes just after a similar warning was put out by North Kesteven District Council.

The authority has urged people and dogs to avoid the water at Millennium Lake in North Hykeham after the discovery there of green algae.