Residents and visitors are being urged not to swim at four beaches across Southend, Leigh and Chalkwell after reports of possible pollution in the sea.

Southend Council bosses say residents and visitors should not swim at Leigh Bell Wharf, Jubilee, Three Shells and Chalkwell beaches after they were alerted by the Environment Agency and Anglian Water that there is a potential risk of pollution.

The council says not to swim in these sections of beach until the warnings have been removed.

Martin Terry, cabinet member for public protection, said: “We’ve been alerted by the Environment Agency and Anglian Water that there is a potential risk of pollution at Leigh Bell Wharf, Jubilee, Three Shells and Chalkwell beaches. Whilst these notices are only advisory, we will be putting notices in place to advise people not to swim in these sections of beach until the warnings have been removed.

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"It is likely that these alerts are related to the heavy rain fall we had overnight, but we will monitor any further alerts from the Environment Agency and Anglian Water.

“It is important to stress that alerts such as this can be common when we experience heavy rain fall, and notices can usually be removed within one or two days. If anyone has any concerns regarding sewage spills they are urged to report these to Anglian Water on 03457 145 145, or Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60.”