THE help of the public is being sought by the Environment Agency which is investigating an oil spill in Braintree in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Diesel fuel polluted two kilometres of the River Blackwater and Agency officers have had to put booms in the water to contain and absorb as much oil as possible. 40-50 dead fish were later found in the river along with many dead worms and some frogs in distress.
The spill happened in Mountbatten Road between Gilbert Way and Albermarle Gardens where diesel was found sitting on the surface of the road and running into surface drains which eventually run into the river. It is estimated that there is about 50-100 litres of oil, some of which has been sent for testing.
Environment Agency Officer Garry Philp said: “We are investigating the spill, which may have been accidental or deliberate and would welcome the help of anyone who may have seen the spill happening.”
Anyone with details should telephone Garry on 01473 706357.