Cause of River Frome ‘blue’ pollution revealed

WATER-based ink has been revealed to be the cause of why a tributary of the River Frome turned bright blue last month.

The Environment Agency, who is leading the investigation into the incident, has also said that the identity of the party responsible still cannot be released as the case is still ongoing.

At the time of the incident the agency said  that there were no reports of dead or distressed wildlife or fish, and in their most recent statement they have offered further reassurance that the water-based ink ‘dispersed naturally with little environmental effect’. 

The incident occurred in early August, at the Rodden Lake Stream, which runs alongside the Ellworthy Court Estate and flows into the River Frome. News of the neon blue tributary went national, with the news covered by the BBC, ITV and most national newspapers.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said, “The pollution was a water-based ink which dispersed naturally with little environmental effect. 

“Details of the responsible party cannot be released at this time as this is still an active case. But we review incidents of this type in line with our enforcement and sanctions guidance. And an appropriate response will be taken in due course.”