Foaming investigation

Environmental scientists from British Waterways are to investigate the high levels of foam and surface scum seen recently in the canal south of the Audlem bridge.

Regular walkers along this attractive stretch of the canal will not have failed to notice the white surface foam which often appears along a one mile stretch south of the Shroppie Fly pub.

The foam reached heights of around 60 cm during the pre-Christmas freeze when surface ice prevented it being washed downstream.

Now scientists from British Waterways are expected in the village this week to carry out tests to see if the foam could be having any effect on canal wildlife and, if possible, to establish the source.

Regular canal walker Mike Mason emailed canal authorities after noticing high levels of foam in December.

He said: "In last month's freeze the foam built up into huge 'towers' on the canal. I was concerned not only about the unsightliness of the foam but the possible effect on wildlife. I don't know where the foam comes from and neither does anyone I've spoken to.

"The scum doesn't seem to be having any effect on wildlife – the ducks certainly seem happy enough – but I want to be reassured that it is safe and not contaminating the water. This is a very attractive part of the canal and many people walk along here. Walkers must wonder where this surface scum is coming from."

The foam, which is white with tinges of orange, seems to enter the canal around lock number four and can be seen as far away as lock number twelve under the Audlem bridge. Photographs have been sent to British Waterways.

British Waterways environmental scientist Robert Squire said: "I intend to visit the site in the next week and will investigate the matter further with my colleagues about historic incidents at the location."

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