AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into a suspected pollution incident that took place near Cirencester this week.
Residents became suspicious when they noticed a strong odour coming from the Ampney Brook in Barnsley, a village just outside of Cirencester, on Tuesday afternoon, March 19.
One witness told the Standard that a tank of cow manure burst open and poured down a lane into the river at around 2pm.
The Environmental Agency were called and are currently at the scene investigating the incident.
A spokesperson for the Environmental Agency said: “Our officers remain on site investigating a suspected pollution incident at a farm in Barnsley, near Cirencester.
"When this incident was reported to us late on Tuesday we immediately took action to minimise any potential risks to the local environment.
"Our emergency response continues along with our investigations into how this incident occurred.
“Anyone who suspects pollution in rivers or streams should contact our 24-hour incident hotline immediately on 0800 807060."
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