Mystery over cause of foam on River Irwell in Radcliffe

Huge suds in the water were spotted late on Wednesday (May 4), with the Environment Agency now working to figure out the source of the pollution. 

In the past, the riverbed was burnt by chemical pollution and this killed much of the wildlife in the affected area.

The cause of the recent foam has yet to be determined. 

Eric Owen, Chair of Little Britain Anglers, said: “Yesterday there were massive 40ft high soap suds in the stream at the opposite side of Asda in Radcliffe from Outwood Road.

“That one was one that the Environmental Agency did go out and investigate eventually.

"We were told about it at 7am that morning so we went down and put a report in straight away and so did other people.

“It was basically massive foam coming off the stream into the river and then going down the river for miles and miles."

He added: “There have been quite a lot of pollution incidents. There were five incidents put in yesterday and a lot of them are repeat offenders that have been going on for years in the River Irwell in Radcliffe.

“They have been reported to the Environmental Agency and United Utilities have been involved in previous incidents.

“However, this time around it was spotted by a member of the public who then got in touch with us because they know we’re the ones who really get on top of things and really push for action."

An Environment Agency spokesperson confirmed they are aware of incidents of foam on the River Irwell.

They added: "Our officers have attended the site and are working to understand the source of this pollution.

"However, as investigations are currently ongoing into this incident, we would be unable to comment further at this time in order not to prejudice our enquiries.

“Members of the public can report incidents of this nature to our 24/7 incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60.”