Toxic algae has formed in a pond in Cleethorpes - and people being urged not to go into the water.

The naturally-occurring blue-green algae has formed on the surface of Sidney Park's pond.

Now, signs have been put up warning people to keep away from the water because it's toxic to humans and animals.

Steve Smith, a member of Grimsby and Cleethorpes Model Boating Club, is a regular user of the pond as he sails his hand-made boats along the pond.

North East Lincolnshire Council are urging people and pets to not enter the water and have placed these signs around the edge of the pond in Sidney Park

He says he wants people to respect the space so that as many people as possible can enjoy it.

"The park is for lots of people to come to," he said.

"It's a beautiful place. A lot of people feed ducks here and I know you shouldn't but who can stop kids from having fun?

"We want people to respect the space. The rubbish is seasonal. We've seen people in the summer who've had disposable barbecues and then tossed them into the pond once they're finished.

Steve Smith, a member of Grimsby and Cleethorpes Model Boating Club, wants people to respect the park so more people can use it

"There are also problems with dog owners picking up their dog poo and chucking the bags in the bond. Our boats are always getting stuck on rubbish and weeds."

The pond in Sidney Park has been dirty for some time, and in July dead fish were surfacing due to the litter and a lack of oxygen.

Ben Spall, another member of the model boating club, says they do as much as possible to keep the water clean but added there's only so much they can do.

"We want more people to come down," he said.

"I used to come here with my father and it's a beautiful park.

"It's extremely important it's kept close. Every Wednesday and Sunday we come here to sail boats.

"It needs to be looked after and preserved."

Grimsby and Cleethorpes Model Boating Club want people to respect the pond. Left to right: Gordon James, Ben Spall, John Hollins, Steve Smith and William Roberton.

Debbie Rodwell, ward councillor for Sidney Sussex, said: "I'm pleased some action is now being taken.

"I have contacted North East Lincolnshire Council again to ask what action is being taken to improve the water so that it's not a health and safety risk.

"I have had people contact me who are concerned for the welfare of the ducks on the pond."

The pond in Sidney Park is filthy and is now considered toxic to humans and animals

A spokesperson from North East Lincolnshire Council said: “We have had reports of blue-green algae forming on the surface of the pond in Sidney Park.

“The North East Lincolnshire Council pollution team are investigating the bacteria and are awaiting lab results.

“Blue-green algae is naturally-occurring and has appeared in Sidney Park as a result of the exceptionally hot weather we’ve had recently.

“The bacteria is known to be toxic to both humans and animals, so please keep animals under control and away from the water. Do not approach the water or touch any unknown substances nearby.”

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