WALKERS have been warned to avoid contact with the water at Pennington Flash.
The lake is affected by blue-green algae which can cause eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rashes, muscular pains and fever.
The algae is found naturally in many inland waters and hot summer weather is ideal for its growth. It rises to the surface of the water as scum and looks like blue-green paint.
Bob Saunders, Wigan's chief environmental health officer, said: "Pennington Flash is a popular place in Leigh with a lot of visitors in summer, but contact with the algae must be avoided.
"People are urged to avoid swimming or even paddling in the water and to keep their pets well away from the water."
Notices are posted around the flash warning the public of the danger of blue-green algae."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article