I have spoken to the Enviroment agency and they said there was a problem which has been occurring since Friday and they were testing the water. they felt it was some kind of lubricant that has been dumped by a passing ship, but it certainly smells very unpleasant and is very hard to remove from your skin.

They said that ADC were also aware ,but felt it was not a serious enough health threat to cordon off the beach. I was at the beach of off Old fort raod at the top of Winterton Way.

It may not be a risk to health but made a rather unpleasant trip to the beach for me and my children.

We've received the following response from Cathy Ridge, Communications Officer at Adur District Council - many thanks for the prompt response Cathy.

Pollution in sea off Shoreham

Adur District Council and the Environment Agency have received several complaints about some identified matter in the sea off Shoreham.

Early investigations suggest that this is likely to be waste fat or oil from a ship. However, working with the Environment Agency samples have been taken for analysis, results are expected within the week. The council has also received confirmation that there has been no leak of sewage from the waste water treatment plant at East Worthing.

Rumours have circulated today that Shoreham beach will close, this is not the case. The council is increasing its beach patrols and we would advise people if they see the pollution in the sea to avoid it and if they see it washed onto the beach to report it.

Messages can be left 24 hours a day on 01273 263040.

Cathy Ridge
Communications officer
Adur District Council