Welsh Water says it is not the source of increased bacteria levels that led to warnings at a bathing spot in Powys.

The water company says assessment of its operations in the area indicate that it has not seen any discharges around the Warren on the River Wye near Hay on Wye.

Powys County Council has erected warning signs near the water after monitoring by Natural Resources Wales found increased levels of bacteria.

A Welsh Water spokesman said: “We have investigated our assets in this area of the Wye and there is no indication they have discharged in the days leading up to the test on July 10.

“We are committed to playing our part to help protect river water quality. This is why we have invested £53 million over the past 12 months, on seven schemes to help improve the quality of the River Wye, which have all been completed ahead of schedule.”

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Powys County Council said that the public should avoid the spot for the foreseeable future.

A spokesperson for Powys County Council said: “Powys County Council is advising the public not to swim in the River Wye at The Warren, near Hay-on-Wye.

“It is taking this action after being advised by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) of a high level of bacteria found during routine monitoring at the site and has placed signs there to warn of the health risk posed by entering the water at this time.

“Any further queries about water quality should be directed to NRW on 0300 065 3000.”

Natural Resources Wales confirmed that the area had not lost the bathing status it was granted only a month ago but said there would be continued monitoring of the site.

(Image: NQ)

A spokesperson for Natural Resources Wales said: “Last Wednesday, our officers took the first bathing water sample at the Warren since it was designated. The water quality results of the sample showed an elevated level of bacteria.

“After receiving the test results of the sample, our environment officers investigated the area to try to find a source of the elevated level of bacteria found in the sample, however, no direct cause was found.

“This water sample is the first in a schedule that will take place throughout the bathing water season which ends on 30 September.  We will continue to monitor the results of each sample and make the information available on our Bathing Water Explorer.”