The Environment Agency has been sent out to investigate reports of diesel spilling into a watercourse in Rossendale.

Residents in Waterfoot today (Wednesday March 1) reported smelling an awful diesel smell, with the air full of fumes and the water in the River Irwell thick with contaminent.

The smell seems to be affecting those living close to Burnley Road East the most, with people in Newchurch also reporting a bad smell.

One person said: "I can smell it up Newchurch, went out today and thought strong smell of diesel."

Another added: "I have had to shut all our windows. I live next to the river at the bottom of Ashworth Road and my house is full of the smell."

While someone else wrote: "Just been out to the bins and I could taste it it's that bad."

One person commented: "The only other time I have ever smelled diesel like this is when they fill the tank at the dye works on Coal Pit Lane, upstream from where the smell seems to be.

"I hope the Environment Agency do investigate and fine. I thought it was my car earlier and was panicking.

"I'd gladly have paid a repair bill for my car than had our river polluted like this. Absolutely dreadful."

It is believed officers from the Environment Agency are responding to the reports. 

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: "We have deployed officers to the River Irwell today to investigate reports of pollution in the river near Rawtenstall, Lancashire.

“Our officers will be taking water samples to determine the cause and understand the source.

“We would urge members of the public to report signs of pollution to our 24 hour hotline on 0800 807060.”