A paddling beach at Southwater Country Park in West Sussex has been shut down after online reports emerged that several people became unwell following contact with its waters.
Illnesses Reported After Swimming
According to accounts, a 'number of individuals have experienced illness, potentially as a result of entering the water at the paddling beach at Southwater Country Park'. The exact cause of the illnesses is not yet known.
Horsham District Council confirmed to the BBC it was aware of the situation, though it had not received any formal notifications from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) or regular lake users.
UKHSA Involved in Investigation
The UKHSA confirmed it had been 'in touch with Horsham District Council to see if they can help establish what the source of the infection is'. The local authority has since shut the beach while it monitors developments.
The council informed the broadcaster: 'We will release further information if the situation changes. Please do not climb the fence or attempt to enter the water at this time.'
Councillor Seeks Answers
Horsham District councillor Alexander Jeffery confirmed that the precise cause of the illnesses remains unknown, and encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms after water contact to contact him directly. He posted on Facebook: 'I understand this will be concerning for many residents and families. I will continue to press for answers.'
No Regular Water Testing at Lake
The lake at Southwater Country Park is 'not a bathing water so is not regularly tested for bacteria', according to the Environment Agency. They noted: 'There are more than 450 sites across the country where regular testing is carried out.'
