The public has been urged not to paddle or swim at a popular beach in Edinburgh after bacteria was found in the water.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said a “high bacterial result” had been found in the water at Portobello Beach following routine sampling.
As a result, the public is being advised against bathing or paddling in the water from Pipe Lane to Joppa Rocks due to the potential risk to human health.
SEPA has activated electronic signs alerting visitors to the temporary measures while Edinburgh Council is also arranging additional signage.
The environmental watchdog is working with the council and Scottish Water to investigate the find and said it will continue to monitor the situation.
Council leader Cammy Day said: “We’re aware of SEPA’s current advice against bathing and paddling at Portobello beach and I’d request that people follow the advice.
“The matter is currently under investigation, and we’ll continue to liaise with SEPA and our partners to monitor the situation.”
In recent weeks, SEPA issued warnings against bathing at other popular swimming spots including Heads of Ayr and Fisherrow Sands in East Lothian after bacteria was detected.
SEPA has since confirmed that the water quality at Heads of Ayr has returned to normal and is now safe for swimming.
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