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Blue green algae warning

Blue-Green Algae warning

Talkin Tarn Credit: ITV Border

Visitors to Talkin Tarn near Brampton in north Cumbria are being warned that the water cannot be used for any kind of water based activity. It's because blue green Algae has been found there.

Blue Green algae has been found Credit: ITV Border

The decision has been taken by Carlisle City Council following advice from the Environment Agency. Daily monitoring of the water is being carried out, but in the meantime, dogwalkers are being advised to keep dogs on leads to prevent them entering the tarn's waters.

The use of the tarn is closed until further notice and visitors are advised to check notices displayed around the country park's grounds or click here for updated information.The Watersports Day, due to be held on Sunday, 17 June, has been cancelled.

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Wild fire warning

Wild fire warning

People are being warned of the dangers of wild fires and how to take precautions to avoid them as the temperatures continue to rise. Every year fire destroys thousands of acres of countryside and wildlife habitats.

James Manning, the Dumfries and Galloway Service’s Lead on Wildfire, said:

“We are currently experiencing some great weather and it is only natural to want to go outdoors and enjoy it with family and friends but it is also important to stay fire-aware when out and about. With the dry weather set to continue we are asking the public to be vigilant and by following these few simple steps we can all help to reduce the chance of a wildfire’’

– James Manning
  • Extinguish cigarettes properly; don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground.
  • Take your rubbish with you, especially glass bottles, which can magnify the sun's rays and start a fire as well as hurt people and animals
  • Avoid open fires in the countryside. Always have them in safe designated areas
  • If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately, this could stop it from developing into a large wildfire incident
  • Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water
  • Landowners and Managers are advised to ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained.

He also reminds people that arson is a crime and prosecutions wil be carried out. Fire and rescue services also remind people to be extra cautious when lighting barbecues and bonfires saying never leave them unattended and make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving:

  • Only use barbeques in suitable and safe area
  • Never use petrol, it can ignite quickly and soon get out of control. Only use approved lighting fuels
  • Make sure it is downwind at least 10 metres away from any buildings or structures
  • Clear dry vegetation to form a circle of earth around the fire
Jubilee preparations underway Scottish Borders

Scottish Borders Jubilee celebrations launched

Lord Lieutenants launch the Diamond Jubilee Programme Credit: ITV Border

More than 100 events have been organised to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in the Scottish Borders. The Lord Lieutenant's representing the region joined today at Thirlestane Castle to launch the programme of events.

Highlights include a big picnic in the ground of Thirlestane Castle and boating on St Mary's Loch during the bank holiday weekend.

Major Alexander Trotter, Lord Lieutenant of Berwickshire said:

"It is certainly very exciting,

"We have got a large number of events taking place, it will be a very busy weekend, not only with social events but also in Berwickshires case it clashes with the Jim Clark rally, so there will be a great deal going on and a large number of parties leading up to the Beacons on the Monday night"

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