Warning not to swim at two Fife beaches after 'high levels of bacteria' found

Scots are being warned to avoid swimming at two beaches in Fife after high levels of bacteria were found in the water.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) say routine samples have indicated high bacterial results at Kinghorn and Burntisland bathing waters.

The pollution and exposure to it may cause illness, with members of the public advised against bathing, paddling, or playing in the sea or streams running into both beaches until further notice.

Signage has been placed at key access points advising people not to enter the water and to keep pets away.

Members of the public should also wash hands and footwear after visiting the area, and ensure they wash their hands before eating and drinking.

Visitors are also being advised not to take anything home from the beach, including shellfish.

It comes days after hundreds flocked to beauty spots across the country last weekend as temperatures soared to more than 31C in parts.

A spokesperson for SEPA said:  ”SEPA are aware of high bacterial results at Kinghorn and Burntisland bathing waters.

“Our officers are currently investigating the cause of this high result and, if required, we will explore any mitigation measures. Further water samples will be taken from the bathing water to determine if there is any ongoing impact.  

“SEPA’s electronic sign at Kinghorn has been changed to advise against bathing and paddling. Fife Coast and Countryside Trust will be placing signs at both bathing waters to notify users of the high results and to avoid bathing and paddling.  

“Advice against bathing will remain in place until SEPA are satisfied that water quality is no longer impacted.”

Fife Council said it is working with the Coast and Countryside Trust to share information on the issue.