Beachgoers urged to avoid contact with suspicious foam and report pollution concerns

NATURAL RESOURCES WALES has issued summer advice to beachgoers after warning that algal blooms along the coast can often be mistaken for sewage pollution.

The environmental body said it regularly receives reports at this time of year from members of the public concerned about suspected sewage discharges at coastal locations.

However, some of those reports turn out to be the breakdown of algal blooms — a natural seasonal event which becomes more common during warmer, sunnier weather.

The warning is particularly relevant to Pembrokeshire, where thousands of residents and visitors are expected to use beaches, coastal paths and bathing waters over the coming weeks.

Algal blooms usually occur between April and August and can appear as discoloured water, surface scum, foam or long streaks running parallel to the coastline.

NRW said long lines of algal foam can often be seen off headlands, while rough conditions can create thick mats of foam along the shoreline.

But officials have stressed that people should not dismiss all suspicious water conditions as natural.

Storm overflows and sewage discharges can also affect coastal waters, particularly after heavy rain, and members of the public are being urged to report anything they believe may be pollution.

NRW said stormwater overflows tend to cause grey discolouration in the water and often have a visible source, such as a pipe or outfall, where the discolouration is strongest.

Sewage discharges may also contain fats or oils, causing waves to flatten around the affected area, and can sometimes attract flocks of seabirds.

A spokesperson for Natural Resources Wales said: “At this time of year, we often receive reports of suspected sewage pollution along the coast — and these reports can turn out to be the breakdown of algal blooms.

“Coastal algal blooms often become more obvious over the summer months when the weather is warmer and there is more sun.

“It can be difficult to tell the difference between algal blooms and sewage, but there are some key signs that can help.”

NRW is advising the public not to touch algal blooms in the sea, lakes or rivers, as some can be toxic.

Dog owners are also being urged to take care, particularly if animals are likely to drink from or swim in affected water.

Anyone who believes they have seen pollution which is not algae should report it to NRW’s incident line on 03000 65 3000 or online.

The advice comes as Wales enters the busy summer bathing season, with coastal water quality and sewage discharges continuing to be a major public concern.

Pembrokeshire’s beaches are among the county’s most important assets, attracting swimmers, surfers, paddleboarders, walkers and tourists throughout the summer.

NRW said reports from the public remain important and help officers assess potential pollution incidents.

The public is advised to note the location, time, appearance, smell, possible source and, where safe, take photographs or video when reporting suspected pollution.

STAFF from Ward 4 at Withybush Hospital are preparing to climb Pen y Fan to raise money for their surgical ward.

The team will take on the challenge on Saturday, September 5, 2026, climbing the highest peak in South Wales in Bannau Brycheiniog.

The fundraiser aims to raise £500, with money going directly towards improving the ward environment for patients.

Staff said: “We have organised this event to raise funds that will go directly towards enhancing the ward environment for patients, including purchasing items such as TVs to improve comfort and wellbeing during their stay.

“We’re hoping to raise £500.”

Katie Hancock, Fundraising Officer, said: “A huge thank you to the team on Ward 4 for embracing the challenge and choosing to raise funds for their ward. We hope you have a fantastic day and truly enjoy the experience.

“The generous charitable donations we receive do not replace NHS funding. Instead, they support additional items and activities outside core NHS expenditure. These small extras make a big difference, and we are so grateful for every donation we receive.”

Donations can be made to the Ward 4 Pen y Fan fundraiser at: https://hyweldda.enthuse.com/cf/ward-4-staff-at-withybush-hospital-s-pen-y-fan-cha

For more information about Hywel Dda Health Charities and how to support local NHS patients and staff, visit: hywelddahealthcharities.nhs.wales

Pictured:

Staff from Ward 4

CHARLES STREET will once again be transformed into a bustling pedestrian zone as Milford Haven celebrates its annual Founders Day on Saturday (June 6).

Milford Haven Business Circle, in collaboration with Milford Haven Town Council, is bringing the much-loved community event back to the town centre to celebrate the town’s heritage, history and community spirit.

The event will run from 11:00am until 4:00pm, with a programme of free family entertainment including bouncy castles, face painting, local stalls, community groups, activities for all ages and live entertainment organised by the Boulevard Theatre.

The day’s celebrations will also be professionally photographed by Captured Soul Photography.

Founders Day gives residents and visitors the chance to come together to celebrate Milford Haven’s past while supporting the businesses, organisations and community groups that continue to make the town a vibrant place today.

To allow the event to take place safely, a road closure will be in force from the junction of Francis Street to Dartmouth Street between 10:00am and 5:00pm. Once the closure is in place, Charles Street will become a pedestrian-only zone.

Medical and event safety cover throughout the day will be provided by Pegasus Ambulance Service.

Milford Haven Business Circle has thanked Milford Haven Town Council, Taste of Haven, PATCH, Tesco Milford Haven, Ambulance Friends, The Ascona Group and Green Light Traffic Management for their support in helping make this year’s event possible.

Business Circle members supporting the event include Cast N Craft Fishing for Health, Pegasus Ambulance Service, Elizabeth Christie Bridal Wear, Taste of Haven, Phoenix Yarns, Phoenix Bowl, Alf Seren Collectables, Granby’s, Captured Soul Photography, Moon Goddess Emporium and Milford Haven Town Council.

Everyone is welcome to attend and entry is free.