SHOCKED villagers are being disgusted by blood flowing in the picturesque stream which runs through their village.

The Environment Agency has launched an investigation after the contamination was discovered in a section of Shaw Brook, Tockholes.

It has confirmed the blood is abattoir waste injected into nearby land which has managed to get into underground drains and enter the watercourse.

Officials have traced the company responsible, but have yet to decide whether to take further action.

David Schofield, of Shirley Gardens, discovered the blood in part of the river which runs through his garden.

He said: "At first I thought it was some sort of chemical and was disgusted when I was told it was in fact a cocktail of waste from an abattoir. It really was a river of blood. The water was red, frothing and had a nasty smell. It happened twice in 24 hours." The blood disappeared for more than a day but returned last night.

Vice-chairman of Tockholes Village Council Adrian Rigby, who also witnessed the pollution incident, added: "We can't believe this sort of thing goes on."

The Environment Agency have been investigating the incident since Wednesday.

A spokesman said: "Fortunately the pollution incident has not had any major impact. No fish have been killed or drinking water affected.

"It was a bona-fide company conducting the operation and we are still investigating what happened."

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