Investigations by Environment Agency Wales have confirmed that hundreds of fish have been killed in a pollution incident on the River Ebbw at Crumlin, near Newbridge.

An initial report of a discharge into the river and dead fish being seen was received by the Agency on the morning of Wednesday October 15 2003. Agency officers immediately started investigations. At present the pollutant is unidentified, but it is believed to be some form of detergent. It is being discharged via a culverted watercourse.

Two industrial sites, each with a large number of units have drainage systems linking to the watercourse. Companies based at Croespenmaen and Pen y Fan Industrial Estates should check their drainage systems for blockages or anything that may have caused this discharge and contact the Agency for advice if a problem is found.

The Agency is carrying out a biological survey and carcass count to determine the full extent of the pollution. Samples of fish, including trout and juvenile salmon have been sent for analysis and the Agency’s investigations are continuing.

If anyone has any information about the possible cause of this incident please contact the Agency on its 24 hour freephone number 0800 80 70 60.